Nelson-Denny Practice Test

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What is the meaning of "belligerent"?

Hostile
Friendly
Indifferent
Calm

The correct answer is: Hostile

The term "belligerent" is defined primarily as being hostile or aggressive, typically in a conflictual or warlike context. This word originates from the Latin "belligerare," which means "to wage war." In general usage, to describe someone or something as belligerent implies that they exhibit a tendency to confront or engage in disputes, or display a readiness to argue or fight. The option that aligns with this definition is "hostile," which captures the essence of aggressive or combative behavior that "belligerent" conveys. In contrast, the other choices, such as "friendly," "indifferent," and "calm," each represent dispositions that are either amicable, neutral, or peaceful, which are fundamentally opposite to hostility. Therefore, "hostile" is the only suitable match for the meaning of "belligerent."