be combative
[/bē ˈkɑːmbətɪv/]
verb phrase
ser combativo; ser agressivo; ser belicoso
1. to be aggressive, quarrelsome, or ready to fight; to display a tendency toward conflict or confrontation
He tends to be combative when discussing politics.
Ele tende a ser combativo quando discute política.
2. to adopt a hostile or confrontational attitude in interaction with others
The witness became combative during cross-examination.
A testemunha se tornou beligerante durante o contrainterrogatório.
3. to show readiness or eagerness to engage in conflict or debate
She has a combative spirit that makes her a fierce competitor.
Ela tem um espírito combativo que a torna uma competidora feroz.
In both American and Brazilian contexts, being combative can be viewed negatively in professional or social settings, suggesting a lack of diplomacy. However, in competitive sports and business contexts, a combative attitude may be valorized as showing determination and assertiveness. In American culture, combative personalities are sometimes romanticized in media, while in Brazilian culture, the emphasis may be more on avoiding conflict through 'jogo de cintura' (social flexibility).
NYC Slang
be ready for beef; be looking for smoke; be scrappy
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