Assaulting: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in legal or formal contexts to describe physical violence or a serious attempt to harm someone physically. It often carries a negative connotation and implies a criminal act.

• The suspect was charged with assaulting a police officer
• She was scared of him assaulting her again

Can be used in both physical and non-physical contexts to describe aggressive actions. It can refer to violence, criticism, or even an illness striking someone.

• The city was attacked by enemy forces
• She felt personally attacked by the comments

Generally refers to a physical blow with an object or body part, but can also be used metaphorically to indicate a sudden impact in various situations.

• He hit the ball out of the park
• The news of his resignation hit the company hard

Can be used to describe a deliberate strong hit, often in contexts like sports or conflicts. Also used in non-physical contexts like strikes in labor disputes or natural disasters.

• The boxer struck his opponent with a powerful punch
• Workers decided to strike for better wages

Used in general contexts where someone is physically attacking or threatening another person.

• He was charged with assaulting a police officer.
• The victim reported the man for assaulting her.

Used in legal contexts to describe a more severe type of assault that includes factors like using a weapon or causing serious injury.

• The defendant is facing charges of aggravated assault.
• Aggravated assault can result in a longer prison sentence.

Legally refers specifically to the act of physically hitting or hurting someone without their consent.

• He was found guilty of battery after hitting his neighbor.
• Battery charges were filed against the suspect.

Used to describe an attack or assault that involves robbing someone, typically on the street.

• She was mugged while walking home from work.
• The police arrested a man who tried to mug a passerby.

Generally used to describe the act of physically attacking someone, often implying a violent or ferocious behavior. This word has a legal connotation and a negative implication.

• He was arrested for assaulting a police officer.
• The suspect is accused of assaulting several people in the park.

A general term that can be used to describe the act of trying to harm someone physically or through other means. It’s more versatile and can be used in both literal and figurative contexts.

• The dog suddenly attacked the child.
• The hacker launched an attack on the company’s servers.

A legal term that specifically refers to the unlawful physical act of contact or use of force against another person, often leading to criminal charges. It’s closely related to 'assaulting' but emphasizes the physical contact aspect.

• He was charged with battery after punching the man.
• Battery of a minor is considered a serious offense.

Used to describe hostile or violent behavior or attitudes. This term can refer to both physical acts and emotional hostility. It’s often used in broader contexts, such as to describe actions by nations or individuals.

• His aggression towards his coworkers was noticeable.
• The country’s military aggression has caused international concern.