Words / C2

TRUK-y-uh-l-uh-nt/ˈtrʌkjələnt/

Truculent means aggressively defiant — quick to snap and unwilling to be managed. Rude is everyday and broader; belligerent is close but more “seeking a fight.” A truculent reply in an interview is a gift to the panel. In speech, chippy or spoiling for an argument is more British-informal; truculent is a precise written label. It is stronger than merely blunt.

Meaning

Quick to argue or fight; aggressively defiant.

Examples

• “A truculent reply will not help in an interview.”
• “Truculent emails from the supplier delayed the repair.”
• “He mistook a truculent silence for strength.”

Good to know

Aggressively defiant. Everyday: hostile / chippy. Close: belligerent. Written register.

Near in meaning

defiant

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