Vocabulary Builder — Essay & Answer Writing
Belligerence
noun
/ beh-LIJ-er-ence /
Medium
Meaning
Aggressive or warlike behaviour; the quality of being eager to argue, fight, or start conflicts
Origin / Etymology
Latin belligerare (to wage war) — bellum (war) + gerere (to carry on)
Synonyms
Aggression
Hostility
Combativeness
Pugnacity
Truculence
Antonyms
Pacifism
Conciliation
Diplomacy
Amity
Example Sentence
"China's increasing belligerence in the South China Sea and along the Line of Actual Control has prompted India to strengthen its border infrastructure and forge new strategic partnerships."
🎯 UPSC Usage
Use in GS2 (India's foreign policy, border disputes) and Security sections. The adjective form 'belligerent' is equally important — in international law, a 'belligerent party' refers to a state engaged in open warfare, with specific rights and obligations under the Geneva Conventions.
Relevant Subjects