truculent

/ˈtrʌk.jə.lənt/
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Bad-tempered and inclined to argue or act aggressively.

Examples

  • She faced a truculent crowd at the meeting.
  • His truculent reply ended the discussion.
  • A truculent tone made compromise harder.
  • The witness became truculent under questioning.
  • The truculent guest argued with the staff.

Similar words

bad-tempered
belligerent
argumentative

Meanings

Argumentative and hostile

adjective
behaviour
formal
Describes a person, reply, or manner that is combative and difficult to deal with.

Examples

  • The truculent guest argued with the staff.
  • His truculent reply ended the discussion.
  • She faced a truculent crowd at the meeting.
  • The witness became truculent under questioning.
  • A truculent tone made compromise harder.

Similar words

Etymology

From Latin truculentus, fierce, based on trux, savage.

FAQ

What does truculent mean?

Truculent means bad-tempered and ready to argue.

When is truculent used?

It can describe a person, reply, crowd, or tone.

How does truculent differ from assertive?

Assertive can be constructive; truculent suggests hostility.

How is truculent used in a sentence?

His truculent reply ended the discussion.

Is truculent formal?

Yes, it is formal and disapproving.

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