hostil
adjectiveCEFR B2
What does “hostil” mean in English?
hostile — unfriendly; actively opposed or aggressive
hostile — unfriendly; actively opposed or aggressive (ambiente hostil, actitud hostil)
Example sentences
El ambiente hostil de la sala hizo imposible mantener un diálogo productivo entre las partes enfrentadas.
The hostile atmosphere in the room made it impossible to maintain a productive dialogue between the opposing parties.
Las condiciones hostiles del terreno montañoso retrasaron las operaciones de rescate más de lo esperado.
The hostile conditions of the mountainous terrain delayed rescue operations more than expected.
How to use it
Hostil means 'hostile' — actively unfriendly, aggressive, or opposed. Common collocations: ambiente hostil, actitud hostil, terreno hostil, reacción hostil. Invariable: hostil/hostil. Ser/estar: ser for inherent hostility; estar for a temporary state ('estaba hostil durante toda la reunión'). Register: formal, journalistic.
Common mistake
Hostil vs agresivo: agresivo implies active aggression or attack; hostil can be passive — an unfriendly, opposed attitude without overt action. A hostile environment can be cold and unwelcoming, not necessarily violent.