What term describes a tendency to be hostile or quarrelsome?

The term that describes a tendency to be hostile or quarrelsome is aggression. Aggression encompasses a range of behaviors and attitudes that are characterized by an intention to harm or assert dominance. This can manifest in both physical actions and verbal confrontations, making it a prominent aspect of interpersonal relations where conflict arises.

In contrast, an apology refers to an expression of regret for an error or misdeed, while compassion involves empathy and concern for the suffering of others. Indifference denotes a lack of interest, concern, or sympathy towards others or situations. Understanding these distinctions highlights why aggression is the most fitting term for describing that specific tendency towards hostility or quarrelsomeness.