offence

[əˈfɛns]

offence Definition

  • 1a breach of a law or rule; an illegal act
  • 2annoyance or resentment brought about by a perceived insult to or disregard for oneself or one's standards or principles

Using offence: Examples

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

  • Example

    He was given a caution for the offence of shoplifting.

  • Example

    The company was fined for committing an offence under health and safety regulations.

  • Example

    I didn't mean to cause offence.

  • Example

    She took offence at his remarks.

offence Synonyms and Antonyms

Idioms Using offence

  • used to apologize for something that might have been taken as an insult or criticism

    Example

    No offence meant, but your cooking could use some improvement.

  • a fence-mending affair

    an attempt to repair a damaged relationship

    Example

    After their argument, they decided to have a fence-mending affair over dinner.

  • a subject or issue over which there is continuing disagreement

    Example

    The issue of funding has long been a bone of contention between the two parties.

Phrases with offence

  • cause someone to feel upset or annoyed

    Example

    I hope I didn't give offence by asking that question.

  • feel upset or annoyed by something that someone has said or done

    Example

    She took offence at his comments about her appearance.

  • an illegal act that is punishable by law

    Example

    Driving under the influence of alcohol is a criminal offence.

Origins of offence

from Old French 'offense', from Latin 'offensa', meaning 'stumbling block'

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Summary: offence in Brief

The term 'offence' [əˈfɛns] refers to a violation of law or rule, such as 'He was given a caution for the offence of shoplifting.' It also denotes annoyance or resentment caused by a perceived insult or disregard for oneself or one's principles, as in 'I didn't mean to cause offence.' 'Offence' extends into phrases like 'give offence,' and idioms like 'no offence meant,' used to apologize for a possible insult.

How do native speakers use this expression?