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

on offense, defense is the best offense, minor offense

give offense, take offense, first offense

Formal and Informal Expressions of offense

In different contexts, you can replace 'offense' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'transgression, violation' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'wrongdoing, faux pas' is a commonplace synonym.

offense: Explore its Definition & Usage

offense Definition

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

Using offense: Examples

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

Example
He was arrested for committing an offense against the law.
Example
Her words caused great offense to the audience.
Example
I took no offense at his criticism.
Example
The team's offense was unstoppable in the second half.

offense Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for offense

Antonyms for offense

Idioms Using offense

on offense
in a position of attacking or being aggressive
Example
The team is on offense and trying to score a goal.
defense is the best offense
it is better to defend yourself than to attack others
Example
Instead of arguing with him, I decided that defense is the best offense and just walked away.
minor offense
a relatively minor violation of a law or rule
Example
Speeding is considered a minor offense in most states.

Phrases with offense

give offense
to cause someone to feel upset or insulted
Example
I hope I didn't give offense by asking about her personal life.
take offense
to feel upset or insulted by something someone said or did
Example
She took offense at his comment and stormed out of the room.
first offense
the first time someone has committed a particular crime or offense
Example
Since it was his first offense, he received a lighter sentence.

Origins of offense

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

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Summary: offense in Brief

The term 'offense' [əˈfɛns] refers to either a breach of law or rule, or annoyance or resentment caused by a perceived insult. It can be used in phrases like 'give offense' and 'take offense,' as well as idioms like 'on offense.' 'Offense' also has a legal connotation, as in 'He was arrested for committing an offense against the law.'