onslaught

[ˈɒn.slɔːt]

onslaught Definition

  • 1a fierce or violent attack
  • 2a large quantity of people or things that is difficult to cope with

Using onslaught: Examples

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

  • Example

    The enemy launched a sudden onslaught on the city.

  • Example

    The company faced an onslaught of criticism after the scandal broke out.

  • Example

    The town was hit by an onslaught of tourists during the summer season.

onslaught Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for onslaught

Antonyms for onslaught

Idioms Using onslaught

  • to actively participate in a fierce attack or overwhelming quantity of something

    Example

    Despite the risks, he threw himself into the onslaught, determined to make a difference.

  • to endure or survive a fierce attack or overwhelming quantity of something without giving up or being defeated

    Example

    The team managed to ride out the onslaught of the opposing team's attacks, and eventually won the game.

  • to prevent or slow down a fierce attack or overwhelming quantity of something

    Example

    The firefighters worked tirelessly to hold back the onslaught of the raging wildfire, saving many homes and lives.

Phrases with onslaught

  • the beginning or start of a fierce attack or overwhelming quantity of something

    Example

    The onset of the onslaught was sudden and unexpected, catching the defenders off guard.

  • to withstand or survive a fierce attack or overwhelming quantity of something

    Example

    The small village managed to weather the onslaught of the storm, thanks to their sturdy buildings and preparedness.

  • a steadily increasing and intensifying attack or quantity of something

    Example

    The mounting onslaught of work was taking a toll on her mental health, and she decided to take a break.

Origins of onslaught

from Middle Dutch 'an-slaht', meaning 'a blow'

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Summary: onslaught in Brief

'Onslaught' [ˈɒn.slɔːt] refers to a fierce or violent attack, or a large quantity of people or things that is difficult to cope with. It can be used in contexts ranging from military battles to overwhelming workloads, as in 'The company faced an onslaught of criticism after the scandal broke out.' Phrases like 'weather the onslaught' and idioms like 'hold back the onslaught' denote the ability to withstand or prevent such attacks.

How do native speakers use this expression?