Literary notes about Combative (AI summary)
In literature, the term combative is frequently employed to convey a spirited disposition marked by readiness to engage in conflict or challenge authority. Authors use it to characterize a variety of temperaments—from a subtle shift in demeanor, as when a once mild character turns noticeably combative [1], to an inherent, vigorous quality that drives figures to confront adversaries head-on, much like President Jackson’s well-known zest for dispute [2]. In some works, the adjective underscores both intellectual and physical assertiveness, suggesting that a seemingly minor provocation can awaken deep-seated combative instincts [3]. This dynamic usage highlights how combative not only colors a character’s actions and expressions but also illustrates the broader struggle between contrasting forces in human nature [4, 5].
- He was kindly; she forgot that, a moment ago, he hadn't seemed combative.
— from Find the Woman by Arthur Somers Roche - President Jackson, always combative, entered into the affair with his usual zest.
— from Women of AmericaWoman: In all ages and in all countries Vol. 10 (of 10) by John Ruse Larus - But then his was merely a combative spirit.
— from Harper's New Monthly Magazine, Volume 2, No. 12, May, 1851. by Various - 'They rouse my indignation, my dear, against the unworthy persons, and give me a combative desire to stand between Mr Boffin and all such persons.
— from Our Mutual Friend by Charles Dickens - Outwardly she had worn no badge of sorrow—she was just as quick, just as combative, just as vivaciously intellectual as she had always been.
— from Sussex Gorse: The Story of a Fight by Sheila Kaye-Smith