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adv B2 Upper-Intermediate Uncommon

aggressively

Aggressively (adv) means in a hostile, forceful, or determined manner. Example: “He argued aggressively for more funding.”

adv
1
In a hostile, forceful, or determined manner.
"He argued aggressively for more funding."
"The company is aggressively expanding into new markets."

How to Use Aggressively

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishIn an aggressive way — either hostile, or simply bold and forceful.

Common pairings
pursue aggressively expand aggressively

Word Forms

more aggressively comparative, most aggressively superlative

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He argued _____ for more funding.

Etymology

From "aggressive" + the adverb-forming suffix "-ly."

Related Words

Rhymes for aggressively

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “aggressively” mean?

The word “aggressively” means in a hostile, forceful, or determined manner. In plain terms, in an aggressive way — either hostile, or simply bold and forceful.

How do you use “aggressively” in a sentence?

Here is “aggressively” used in a sentence: “He argued aggressively for more funding.”

What part of speech is “aggressively”?

“Aggressively” is an adverb.

Is “aggressively” a common word?

“Aggressively” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

What is the difference between aggressively and assertively?

"Aggressively" implies hostility, force, or excessive determination that can feel confrontational, while "assertively" describes confident, direct behavior without necessarily being hostile. Acting assertively is generally viewed positively; acting aggressively often carries a negative connotation.

Can aggressively be used in a positive sense?

Yes, "aggressively" is sometimes used positively in business or sports contexts to mean vigorously or with strong determination, as in "the company aggressively expanded its market share," even though the word's core sense is hostile or forceful.

What verbs commonly follow aggressively?

"Aggressively" often modifies verbs like "pursue," "market," "attack," "defend," or "negotiate," describing forceful or determined action rather than physical hostility alone.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial