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Counterattack Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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counterattack

[ˈkaʊntərəˌtæk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

military

A counterattack is an attack that is made in response to an enemy's attack.

Synonyms

counteroffensive, counterstrike, retaliation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
counterattack

Used to describe a military or tactical response to an attack by the enemy, often immediately after being attacked.

  • The soldiers launched a counterattack right after the enemy breached the fortress
retaliation

Used to describe an act of revenge or payback in both military and non-military contexts. It often carries a negative connotation.

  • The country threatened retaliation after the unprovoked attack
  • She planned her retaliation after being humiliated in public
counteroffensive

Used in more strategic and large-scale scenarios, where an organized and planned military operation aims to regain lost territory or turn the tide of the conflict.

  • The army's counteroffensive was successful, reclaiming the city from enemy forces
counterstrike

Typically used in a military context, indicating a precise and often sudden military action taken in response to an initial strike.

  • The general ordered a counterstrike to neutralize the enemy's advancing units

Examples of usage

  • The troops launched a counterattack to push back the enemy forces.
  • The counterattack was successful in regaining control of the territory.
Context #2 | Verb

military

To counterattack means to launch an attack in response to an enemy's attack.

Synonyms

counterstrike, retaliate, strike back.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
counterattack

Typically used in military or strategic scenarios where one side responds to an initial attack with an attack of their own.

  • The army launched a powerful counterattack at dawn.
  • The team planned a counterattack to regain control of the game.
retaliate

Mostly used in everyday language and legal contexts to indicate a response to some harm or wrongdoing, often with a connotation of revenge. May carry a negative feeling.

  • She decided not to retaliate after being insulted.
  • The company retaliated against the whistleblower.
strike back

Commonly used in both literal and figurative situations to suggest a response to an attack or criticism, with the aim of defending oneself.

  • After being criticized, he decided to strike back with a series of tweets.
  • The boxer managed to strike back in the final round.
counterstrike

Often used in military, gaming, or tactical situations to describe a deliberate and strong act of striking back against an adversary.

  • The special forces prepared for a counterstrike against the terrorists.
  • In the game, the player must execute a counterstrike to win.

Examples of usage

  • The army decided to counterattack the enemy positions.
  • The decision to counterattack caught the enemy by surprise.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Military History

  • Counterattacks have been a crucial part of military strategy throughout history, such as during World War II when forces often used them to reclaim territory.
  • Famous examples include the D-Day counterattacks by Allied forces, which turned the tide of the war in Europe.
  • These responses can use surprise and speed to exploit an enemy's weaknesses, often leading to decisive victories.

Sports

  • In sports like soccer, counterattacks are a key strategy, where teams quickly switch from defense to offense after regaining possession.
  • Basketball teams use counterattacks to exploit fast breaks, aiming for a quick shot before the opposing team can set up their defense.
  • Counterattacking in sports requires agility and quick thinking, emphasizing teamwork and precision.

Psychology

  • In conflict resolution, a counterattack in verbal disputes might involve defending oneself against criticism, which can sometimes escalate tensions.
  • Cognitive responses in individuals may lead to defensive behaviors, where perceived attacks result in sharpened counterattacks during disagreements.
  • Understanding how and when to counterattack in discussions can help in managing conflicts effectively without further inflaming the situation.

Literature

  • The concept of counterattack appears in many stories where heroes respond decisively to a villain’s initial threat, illustrating the theme of resilience.
  • In classical literature, characters often face challenges and must plan counterattacks to overcome their adversaries, showcasing strategic thinking.
  • Epic poems frequently highlight counterattacks as moments of pivotal character development, revealing their true strengths and ingenuity.

Origin of 'counterattack'

The term 'counterattack' originated in the military context, where it refers to a strategic response to an enemy's attack. The concept of counterattacking has been an essential part of warfare throughout history, as armies seek to regain lost ground or repel enemy advances. The effectiveness of a counterattack often depends on timing, coordination, and surprise. Over time, the term has also been used in non-military contexts to describe a forceful response or retaliation in various situations.

See also: attack, attackable, attacker, attacking, attacks.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,519, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.