The Opposite(Antonym) of “defensive”
The antonyms of defensive are offensive, aggressive, and attacking. These words convey a different approach to a situation or conflict. While defensive implies a protective stance, the antonyms suggest an assertive or attacking approach.
Explore all Antonyms of “defensive”
Definitions and Examples of offensive, aggressive, attacking
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Aggressively attacking or causing harm; causing displeasure or disgust.
Example
His offensive remarks hurt her feelings and made her angry.
Assertive, forceful, or hostile in pursuing one's goals or interests.
Example
The coach encouraged the team to be more aggressive in their play and take more risks.
Initiating an attack or assault on someone or something.
Example
The army launched an attacking campaign against the enemy forces.
Key Differences: offensive vs aggressive vs attacking
- 1Offensive implies causing harm or displeasure, while defensive implies protection or self-defense.
- 2Aggressive suggests assertiveness and forcefulness in pursuing goals, while defensive suggests a protective stance.
- 3Attacking implies initiating an attack or assault, while defensive implies defending against an attack.
Effective Usage of offensive, aggressive, attacking
- 1Conflict Resolution: Use these antonyms to describe different approaches to conflict resolution.
- 2Sports and Games: Use aggressive and attacking to describe a team's style of play.
- 3Politics and Diplomacy: Use offensive and defensive to describe a country's foreign policy or military strategy.
Remember this!
The antonyms of defensive suggest different approaches to a situation or conflict. Offensive implies causing harm, aggressive suggests assertiveness, and attacking implies initiating an attack. Use these words to describe conflict resolution, sports and games, and politics and diplomacy.
