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pugnaciousness

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /pʌɡˈneɪʃəsnəs/

KK: /pʌgˈneɪʃəsnəs/

noun
Definition

The quality of being eager to fight or argue; a tendency to be aggressive or combative.


Example

His pugnaciousness often led to conflicts with his colleagues.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you noticed how his pugnaciousness makes every argument more intense?
Sloth B
Yeah, it definitely adds a spark to the conversation.
Sloth A
Sometimes I think he just enjoys being confrontational.
Sloth B
True, but it can be exhausting to deal with all the time.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
belligerence
aggressiveness
combativeness
Antonyms
peacefulness
calmness
nonviolence
Root Explanation

Pugnaciousness → It is formed from "pugnare" (meaning to fight) and the suffix "-ous" (meaning full of) combined with "-ness" (meaning the state of). The word describes the state of being full of a fighting spirit or inclined to fight.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pugnare' meaning to fight, and remember that 'pugnaciousness' refers to the state of being full of a fighting spirit.

Visually Confused Words
nugaciousness
fugaciousness
ungraciousness
unctiousness
spaciousness
graciousness
punctiliousness
unanxiousness
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