student asking question

What kind of expression is "be offended"?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

To "be offended" means to have hurt feelings, to feel insulted, or to be upset by what someone has said or done. Ex: Older people might be offended by swearing. Ex: Don't be offended by him. He just wants what is best for you. The phrase "no offense" can be used as a warning when you don't want someone to be offended by what you are about to say. It is often used by people even when they know that what they will say will offend the other person no matter what. Ex: No offense, but you aren't the best driver. I think I should drive. Ex: I think we need some new ideas on this project. But no offense, your ideas have been really great!

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