Assailing: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in a formal or literary context to describe a vigorous or violent attack, typically against an idea or position more than a physical attack.

• The politician found herself assailed by critics from all sides
• The castle was assailed by waves of enemies

A general term that can be used to describe a wide range of aggressive actions, both physical and verbal, against someone or something.

• The cyber attack compromised personal data of thousands
• The dog suddenly attacked the mailman

Commonly used in legal contexts or to describe physical attacks. Often has a serious, violent connotation.

• He was arrested for assault after the bar fight
• The report detailed a series of assaults on civilians

Commonly used to describe being troubled or harassed by problems or difficulties. Less often used to describe physical attacks.

• The expedition was beset by numerous challenges
• She felt beset by worries and doubts

Typically used in a historical or military context to describe surrounding a place to capture it, or figuratively to describe overwhelming someone with requests or questions.

• The army besieged the fortress for months
• She was besieged by reporters after the announcement

Used when describing an attack, either physical or verbal. It often has a negative connotation and suggests aggression.

• The politician was assailed by the media for his controversial comments.
• Their village was assailed by invaders at dawn.

Suitable for describing the action of coming near or closer to something or someone, either physically or in terms of dealing with an issue. It can be less formal than 'address'.

• She decided to approach the subject with caution.
• Let's find a new approach to solve this problem.

Used when speaking about dealing with or solving a problem or situation directly. It often implies a formal or structured approach.

• We need to address the lack of resources in our community.
• The company will address all customer complaints in a timely manner.

Used to describe the act of following or chasing after someone or something, often with the goal of achieving it. It implies ongoing effort.

• He decided to pursue a career in medicine.
• The detective pursued the suspect through the narrow streets.

Appropriate for describing the action of dealing with, confronting, or working to solve a problem energetically. It can be used in both informal and formal contexts.

• We need to tackle climate change before it's too late.
• She tackled her homework right after dinner.