"Enmity" vs. "hostility": shades of antagonism

Reviewed and edited by

Lloyd Cooper 05/02/2025, 18:48

English.me team member

Enmity and hostility. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "enmity" and "hostility" refer to feelings of ill-will, animosity, or opposition towards someone or something. They describe negative attitudes that can lead to conflict or aggression.

What is different?

"Enmity" implies a deep-seated, long-standing mutual hatred or ill-will between parties, often enduring over time. It emphasizes a more profound and enduring state of mutual animosity. "Hostility" refers to unfriendly or antagonistic behavior or attitudes that may not be as deeply rooted or mutual. It can be one-sided and may also refer to acts of warfare or aggression in a broader context.

Which one is more common?

Examples of usage

Enmity

The longstanding enmity between the two families had lasted for generations.
Despite their past enmity, they decided to work together for the common good.
Political enmity can hinder progress and collaboration.

Hostility

She was surprised by the hostility in his voice.
The proposal was met with hostility from the committee members.
They called for a ceasefire to end the hostilities in the region.