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The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

fractious

IPA:

How to pronounce fractious (audio)

Dictionary definition of fractious

Unruly, irritable, or prone to disputes and disagreements, often characterized by a difficult or quarrelsome nature.
"The meeting became fractious as different opinions clashed."

Detailed meaning of fractious

When we refer to a person, group, or situation as fractious, we emphasize a tendency to exhibit disruptive behavior, resistance to authority or control, or a quickness to engage in arguments or conflicts. Fractious individuals may be easily irritated or discontented, making it challenging to maintain peace or cooperation. This term conveys a sense of restlessness and discord, highlighting the potential for tension and discord within a group or context. Whether it's a fractious child who refuses to follow instructions, a fractious meeting marked by constant disagreements, or a fractious political environment with ongoing disputes, this adjective underscores the challenging and unsettled nature of the situation.

Example sentences containing fractious

1. The fractious child was constantly causing disruptions in class.
2. The fractious employee was always arguing with their colleagues.
3. The group project was proving to be fractious due to conflicting ideas.
4. The fractious horse was difficult to control during the race.
5. The team was becoming fractious due to a lack of clear leadership.
6. The political climate was increasingly fractious, with tensions running high.

History and etymology of fractious

The adjective 'fractious' has its etymology rooted in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'fractus,' which means 'broken' or 'fractured.' In English, 'fractious' describes something or someone as unruly, irritable, or prone to disputes and disagreements, often characterized by a difficult or quarrelsome nature. The term embodies the idea of something being metaphorically 'broken' in its ability to cooperate or maintain harmony, akin to a fracture in a smooth surface. When applied to people, it suggests a tendency to resist authority or disrupt unity. Thus, when we speak of someone or something as 'fractious' today, we are drawing on its Latin origins to emphasize a disposition that disrupts, rather than contributes to, cohesion and cooperation.

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Further usage examples of fractious

1. The fractious atmosphere at the family dinner made it difficult to enjoy.
2. The fractious debate over the proposed policy change lasted for hours.
3. The negotiations were becoming fractious as both sides dug in their heels.
4. The fractious relationship between the two neighbors was causing problems for the whole community.
5. The fractious crowd became violent when their demands were not met.
6. The fractious debate among the committee members made it difficult to reach a consensus on the proposed bill.
7. The classroom atmosphere turned fractious when students vehemently disagreed with the teacher's statements.
8. In the fractious world of politics, alliances are often temporary, and disputes can flare up suddenly.
9. She had a fractious relationship with her boss, leading to frequent arguments and an eventual parting of ways.
10. Dealing with fractious customers is a daily challenge for those working in customer service industries.
11. The fractious meeting ended with no resolution in sight, only exacerbating tensions among stakeholders.
12. Amidst fractious negotiations, the union and management struggled to find common ground on wages and benefits.
13. The fractious child refused to listen to his parents, causing disruptions at family gatherings and events.
14. The fractious nature of social media debates often polarizes individuals rather than fostering constructive dialogue.
15. In the realm of international diplomacy, fractious disputes can lead to prolonged tension between countries.
16. The band's fractious history was well-known, characterized by internal squabbles and frequent lineup changes.
17. After a day filled with fractious encounters, she decided it was time for a break to recharge emotionally.
18. The fractious temperament of the lead actor created challenges for the entire production crew during filming.
19. Navigating a fractious market environment, investors are wary of making commitments that could result in losses.
20. A fractious crowd at the sporting event made it difficult for security personnel to maintain order and safety.
21. The company's fractious corporate culture has led to a high turnover rate and declining employee morale.
22. A fractious argument between neighbors over property lines has now escalated to a legal dispute.
23. The software development team became fractious when they couldn't agree on the technical direction of the project.
24. With a fractious political climate, it's more important than ever for citizens to engage in respectful dialogue.
25. Their fractious marriage eventually led to a separation, with both parties acknowledging irreconcilable differences.

GRE 9 (Graduate Record Examination), Agreements and Settlements, Annoyance and Irritation, Obstacles and Hardships, Crisis and Opposition, Hostility and Dispute

argumentative,cantankerous,contentious,cross,disorderly,disruptive,peevish,quarrelsome,stubborn,turbulent

irritable, amiable, cooperative, agreeable

eb68db_7819b9f9c2924a468e8cb1a4be133b33.mp3

cranky,irritable,testy,unmanageable,unruly

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