Agressiivne

Agressiivne is an Estonian adjective meaning aggressive. It describes behavior, attitudes, or actions that are forceful, confrontational, or prone to provoking conflict. The term is used in everyday language as well as in psychology, sports, and media. While it often carries negative connotations, it can be neutral or even valued in certain competitive contexts, such as a high-pressure playing style or assertive leadership.

Etymology and forms: The word is a loanword from Western European languages, ultimately deriving from Latin aggressivus and entering Estonian via German aggressiv or French agressif. The standard Estonian spelling is agressiivne. Related forms include aggressiivsus (aggressiveness) and agressiivselt (aggressively). The expression agressiivne käitumine is commonly used to refer to aggressive behavior.

Usage notes: In psychology and criminology, agressiivne käitumine refers to aggression as a behavior pattern. In sports or business, aggressiivne taktika or aggressiivne mäng can describe a forceful, high-intensity approach. The term remains neutral in technical contexts but is generally perceived negatively in everyday language, with nuance arising from degree, intent, and context.