defensive

[dɪˈfɛnsɪv]

defensive Definition

• 1. used or intended to defend or protect
• 2. very anxious to challenge or avoid criticism

Using defensive: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "defensive" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The army took defensive positions around the city.

• Example

  She became defensive when I asked about her grades.

• Example

  He always gets defensive when someone criticizes his work.

• Example

  The company's defensive strategy helped it survive the economic downturn.

defensive Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for defensive

• protective
• guarding
• watchful
• cautious
• suspicious

Antonyms for defensive

• offensive
• aggressive
• attacking

Idioms Using defensive

• on the defensive

  in a position of being criticized or attacked and having to defend oneself

  Example

  The politician was on the defensive during the debate, trying to explain his controversial policies.

• play defense

  to take a defensive position or approach, especially in sports

  Example

  The team needs to play defense if they want to win this game.

• go on the defensive

  to start defending oneself or one's position, especially in response to criticism or attack

  Example

  When the CEO's decision was questioned, he immediately went on the defensive.

Phrases with defensive

• defensive driving

  driving in a way that reduces the risk of accidents, especially by being aware of potential hazards and following traffic laws

  Example

  Defensive driving is an important skill for all drivers to learn.

• defensive tackle

  a player in American football who lines up on the defensive line and is responsible for stopping the opposing team's running plays

  Example

  The defensive tackle made a crucial stop on fourth down.

• defensive mechanism

  an unconscious psychological process that helps a person cope with anxiety or other unpleasant emotions

  Example

  Projection is a common defensive mechanism in which a person attributes their own unacceptable thoughts or feelings to someone else.

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Summary: defensive in Brief

The term 'defensive' [dɪˈfɛnsɪv] describes something that is used or intended to defend or protect, such as a military position or a company strategy. It can also describe a person who is very anxious to challenge or avoid criticism, as in 'She became defensive when I asked about her grades.' 'Defensive' extends into phrases like 'defensive driving,' and idioms like 'on the defensive,' denoting a position of being criticized or attacked and having to defend oneself.