Assaults: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in legal or formal contexts to describe physical attacks or threats of harm. It often involves a criminal offense.

• The man was arrested for multiple assaults on his neighbors
• The victim suffered emotional trauma from the assaults

Used in legal terms often, battery refers to the actual act of harmful or offensive physical contact, distinct from assault, which is the threat or attempt.

• He was charged with battery after hitting a passerby
• The case of battery was taken very seriously in court

Describes hostile or violent behavior, which can be both physical and verbal. It is often used in the context of behavior or attitude.

• The dog's aggression towards strangers was a cause of concern
• The manager's aggression created a hostile work environment

Use in a general sense to describe any aggressive action or criticism. It can be physical, verbal, or even cyber. It may have a negative connotation depending on the context.

• The castle was under attack for several days.
• Her ideas were attacked during the meeting.

Use in a military or strategic context to refer to a planned, organized aggressive action against an enemy. It is less commonly used in everyday language and can have a formal tone.

• The army launched a major offensive against the rebels.
• The football team mounted an offensive to score.

Use to describe a prolonged military blockade or assault on a city or fortress with the intent to conquer. It implies endurance, suffering, and a long-term effort.

• The medieval town endured a siege that lasted for months.
• During the siege, food supplies were severely limited.

Can be used to describe both physical impacts and targeted actions, often implying deliberate intent. Also used in labor contexts to describe work stoppages.

• The workers decided to strike for better wages and conditions.
• He struck the match and lit the candle.

Used to describe a forceful physical impact, often with an object or body part making contact, usually in informal settings.

• He hit the ball so hard it went over the fence.
• She was hit by a stray baseball during the game.