animosity - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
animosity Word Meanings
- strong hostility or hatred
- a feeling of intense dislike
- active opposition or anger towards someone or something
animosity Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
animosity Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ænɪˈmɒsɪti/
US
/ˌænɪˈmɑːsɪti/
animosity Word Etymology
The root decomposes into 'animus' (Latin for 'mind' or 'spirit') + '-osity' (a suffix denoting quality). The term originated from Latin, evolving into French, and then English. Picture a fierce stormy spirit clashing with others, highlighting the intensity of the conflict.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Animosity is a strong feeling of hostility toward someone, often built up through a series of conflicts, betrayals, or perceived slights. It goes beyond ordinary dislike by coloring thoughts, speech, and behavior toward the person, sometimes producing lasting resentment or active opposition. The word emphasizes intensity and duration rather than a momentary mood. In everyday use you might describe a workplace feud, a long-standing rivalry, or political polarization as animosity. It can stem from personal hurt, perceived injustice, or competing interests, and once established it can be hard to shake. The etymology, linking mind and spirit clashing, evokes a stormy inner atmosphere that fuels such hostility.
Usage Reminders
- - Remember animosity is stronger than ordinary dislike
- - It often involves long-standing conflict or perception of injustice
- - Use with toward/against, not just 'in' or 'of'
- - Distinguish it from anger or hostility in casual speech
- - Consider context (personal vs. group) when choosing phrasing
Common Misconceptions
- Believing animosity is only about anger rather than a sustained hostility
- Thinking it describes mild dislike rather than intense feeling
- Using animosity to label every small disagreement
- Confusing animosity with hatred or enmity
- Assuming it always involves direct confrontation
Thinking Differences
English speakers often view animosity as a deep, long-lasting form of hostility, sometimes rooted in a clash of interests or values. Learners may overgeneralize it to everyday annoyances or treat it as merely “anger.” In English, animosity pairs naturally with toward/against, and it commonly appears in discussions of conflicts, rivalries, or politics.
Learning Tips
- - Practice common collocations (animosity toward/against)
- - Distinguish animosity from anger/hostility in tone
- - Read examples in news about long-running conflicts
- - Notice formal vs. informal usage
- - Write sentences describing group vs. personal animosity
- - Listen for rhythm and emphasis in longer phrases
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'animosity'?
A.Loyalty
B.Hatred
C.Friendship
D.Confusion
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'animosity' used correctly?
A.He showed animosity towards his siblings.
B.They expressed animosity by throwing a party.
C.She felt animosity towards her best friend.
D.The teacher praised the students' animosity.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'animosity'?
A.Love
B.Enmity
C.Compassion
D.Joy
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'animosity'?
A.Antipathy
B.Rancor
C.Amity
D.Hostility
Step 5: Mastery
How might 'animosity' manifest in a workplace setting?
A.By constant disagreement and hostility
B.With open communication and understanding
C.Through mutual respect and collaboration
D.By sharing ideas and supporting each other
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