combative
adjective
com·bat·ive
kəm-ˈba-tiv 
: marked by eagerness to fight or contend
combatively
adverb
combativeness
noun
Examples of combative in a Sentence
When the police tried to arrest him, he became combative.
channeling his naturally combative impulses into sports
Recent Examples on the Web
While known for his combative political tone, Trump has often shown a softer side when speaking about his children and grandchildren.
—
Emma Marsden, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 May 2025
As for the broader trajectory of U.S. policy, signs point to a less combative tone — at least for now.
—Shannon Carroll, Quartz, 12 May 2025
Avoid defensive or combative language, and if necessary, acknowledge any mistakes while outlining the steps to address them.
—Dave Fulk, Forbes.com, 5 May 2025
Town halls have become unruly and combative, pushing many Republican lawmakers to avoid facing voters altogether.
—Katie Benner, New York Times, 1 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for combative
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Emma Marsden, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 May 2025
As for the broader trajectory of U.S. policy, signs point to a less combative tone — at least for now.
—Shannon Carroll, Quartz, 12 May 2025
Avoid defensive or combative language, and if necessary, acknowledge any mistakes while outlining the steps to address them.
—Dave Fulk, Forbes.com, 5 May 2025
Town halls have become unruly and combative, pushing many Republican lawmakers to avoid facing voters altogether.
—Katie Benner, New York Times, 1 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for combative
Cite this Entry
“Combative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/combative. Accessed 21 May. 2025.
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