en English es español fr française it italiano de deutsche ja 日本語 pl polski cs česky sv svenska tr Türkçe nl Nederlands

Battle of words: comparing "bellicose" and "belligerent"

Reviewed and edited by Lloyd Cooper 03/11/2024, 14:03
English.me team member
Bellicose and belligerent. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both words pertain to aggression and warlike behavior. They are often used to describe people or actions that are inclined to start conflicts or demonstrate hostility.

What is different?

Bellicose often refers to a natural disposition toward aggression and liking for conflict, often used more in terms of demeanor or attitude, whereas belligerent can refer to both an attitude of hostility and an entity that is engaged in warfare.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for bellicose) and belligerent

Examples of usage

Bellicose
  • The bellicose stance of the country's leadership concerned neighboring nations.
  • Her bellicose nature often led to arguments within the team.
  • The negotiations were hindered by the bellicose rhetoric of the representatives.
Belligerent
  • The belligerent behavior of the protestors led to a confrontation with the police.
  • He became belligerent when someone disagreed with him.
  • During wartime, countries in conflict are considered belligerents.

Recommended posts in Difference

The nuances of nonsense: "idiocy" vs "stupidity"

The nuances of nonsense: "idiocy" vs "stupidity"

"Idiocy" is often considered more severe and is an older ... Learn more →

"Unpretentious" vs. "unassuming": words of humble distinction

"Unpretentious" vs. "unassuming": words of humble distinction

While both words convey modesty, "unpretentious" highlights a lack of ... Learn more →

"Highway" vs. "freeway": a roadway riddle

"Highway" vs. "freeway": a roadway riddle

A "highway" is a broad term used globally for any ... Learn more →

Safe havens: exploring "shelter" vs. "refuge"

Safe havens: exploring "shelter" vs. "refuge"

"Shelter" often emphasizes a physical structure or temporary place of ... Learn more →