What is the Difference Between Animosity and Hostility

The main difference between animosity and hostility is their degree of intensity; animosity is more intense than hostility.  

Both animosity and hostility are two nouns that refer to strong dislike and opposition. Hostility refers to hostile behaviour – unfriendliness or opposition. Animosity, on the other hand, refers to strong hostility. Therefore, there is not much of a difference between animosity and hostility. In fact, both these nouns can be used interchangeably, as synonyms.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is Animosity 
     – Definition, Meaning, Usage, Examples
2. What is Hostility
    – Definition, Meaning, Usage, Examples
3. What are the Similarities Between Animosity and Hostility
    – Outline of Common Features
4. What is the Difference Between Animosity and Hostility
    – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Animosity, Hostility

What is Animosity

Animosity is a noun that refers to antagonism or strong hostility. The Merriam Webster online dictionary defines it as “a strong feeling of dislike or hatred: ill will or resentment tending toward active hostility: an antagonistic attitude”. Meanwhile, the Cambridge online dictionary defines it as “strong dislike, opposition, or anger”. This noun actually originates from the Latin word animus, meaning “spirit” or “mind”.

Let’s look at some example sentences to see how this noun is applied in general usage.

Although we are business rivals, there is no personal animosity between us.

I no longer feel any animosity towards him.

This event will help people of both countries to forget their old animosity.

Despite his critical injuries, he bore no animosity towards his attackers; he was ready to forget him.

Each group had its own culture and traditions, and there was a strong animosity between the two groups.

It is natural for her to feel great animosity towards her captor.

What is Hostility

The noun hostility refers to hostile behaviour, showcasing unfriendliness and opposition. The Cambridge Online Dictionary defines hostility as “an occasion when someone is unfriendly or shows that they do not like something” while Marriam Webster dictionary defines it as “deep-seated usually mutual ill will”. The plural form of hostility is hostilities. This plural form can also refer to conflicts or acts of warfare.

Let’s look at some example sentences to see how this noun is applied in general usage.

I’m glad that we went through the divorce proceedings without any visible signs of hostility.

The Smiths showed open hostility towards their neighbours.

The economy of the country boomed after the cessation of hostilities.

Following the minister’s racist comments, hostilities broke out just after midnight.

Their plan to unify the two states were met with much hostility.

The two countries were asked to suspend their hostilities during their peace talks.

Members of this small community showed hostility to all outsiders.

Similarities Between Animosity and Hostility

• Animosity and hostility are two nouns that refer to strong dislike, unfriendliness, and opposition.
• Therefore you can use these two nouns interchangeably, as synonyms. Some other synonyms include antagonism, enmity, and aggression. 

Difference Between Animosity and Hostility

Definition

Hostility refers to hostile behaviour – unfriendliness or opposition, while animosity refers to strong dislike, opposition, or anger.

Intensity

Animosity is more intense than hostility as it indicates strong hostility.

Plural Form

The plural form of animosity is animosities while the plural form of hostility is hostilities, and this plural form specifically refers to conflicts or acts of warfare.

Conclusion

In brief, the main difference between animosity and hostility is their degree of intensity; animosity is more intense than hostility.  In fact, animosity is often defined as a strong hostility. However, both these nouns can be used interchangeably, as synonyms.

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1. “1300528” (CC0) via Pixabay
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