combative

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The article argues that Becerra, who has shown combative skill in previous roles, inexplicably held back at the debate rather than showcasing his genuine fighting spirit.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026

It gave no reason for his sudden departure, the latest removal of a senior officer under Trump's combative Pentagon chief, Pete Hegseth.

From Barron's • Apr. 23, 2026

That battle of wills set the tone for a surprisingly combative hearing, which also featured some wry probing of a mysterious secret mission Mullin supposedly went on a decade ago.

From Slate • Mar. 21, 2026

During Musk's testimony before the jury, he was more combative with lawyers representing the class of investors.

From BBC • Mar. 20, 2026

But I had a striking sense that if I’d had a son, he would, at the core, be a lot like this brainy, combative oddball sitting in a musty apartment in a small Idaho town.

From "Geeks: How Two Lost Boys Rode the Internet Out of Idaho" by Jon Katz