Counteroffensive: meaning, definitions and examples

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counteroffensive

[ˌkaʊntərəˈfɛnsɪv ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

military

A military action in response to an attack, with the goal of regaining lost territory or defeating the enemy.

Synonyms

counterattack, retaliation, revenge.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
counteroffensive	Used in military or strategic scenarios where a large and coordinated effort is made to push back against an opponent's advance. The army launched a counteroffensive to regain lost territory. The general planned a counteroffensive to halt the enemy's momentum.
retaliation	Used in everyday situations as well as in legal or diplomatic contexts to describe an action taken in response to harm or an attack, often seen as defensive or justifiable. The workers went on strike in retaliation for the unfair treatment. Retaliation against the new law was swift and severe.
counterattack	Commonly used in sports or military contexts where a swift and immediate response is made to an opponent's attack. The football team launched a counterattack after regaining possession of the ball. The soldiers prepared for a counterattack after the initial ambush.
revenge	Typically used in personal or dramatic situations where an individual seeks to inflict harm or punishment on someone who has wronged them. This term has a negative connotation. He sought revenge on the person who betrayed him. The character's desire for revenge drove the plot of the movie.

Examples of usage

The successful counteroffensive pushed the enemy forces back.
The generals planned a strategic counteroffensive to reclaim the city.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

general

A strong response or action taken to counteract a previous action or situation.

Synonyms

reaction, response, retaliation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
counteroffensive	Used in military or competitive situations to describe a major pushback against an attack or offensive maneuver. The army launched a counteroffensive to reclaim the lost territory. The team mounted a strong counteroffensive in the final quarter to win the game.
response	A broad term used for any reply or answer to a question, situation, or stimulus. It can be formal or informal. Her response to the job offer was prompt and enthusiastic. The emergency response team was on the scene within minutes.
reaction	Describes a general response to an action, event, or stimulus. It can be emotional, immediate, or instinctual. His reaction to the surprise party was priceless. The stock market showed a strong reaction to the economic news.
retaliation	Conveys a sense of revenge or payback in reaction to an aggression or wrongdoing. It often carries a negative connotation. The country vowed retaliation for the unprovoked attack. He feared retaliation after reporting the harassment at work.

Examples of usage

The PR team launched a counteroffensive against the negative press coverage.
The company's counteroffensive against the competitor's new product was well-received.

Interesting Facts

Military Strategy

Counteroffensives are often planned after a defense has been breached, allowing forces to regain control.
Successful counteroffensives can turn the tide of battles, as seen in many historical conflicts.
They require precise timing and coordination, making them complex military maneuvers.

History

The term became prominent during World War II, particularly during battles like Stalingrad where Soviets executed large counteroffensives.
In the Vietnam War, the Tet Offensive led to a significant American counteroffensive, changing perceptions of the war's progress.
In 1991, during the Gulf War, a decisive counteroffensive by coalition forces led to the quick expulsion of Iraqi troops from Kuwait.

Psychology

Counteroffensive tactics can reflect psychological maneuvers in human conflict, illustrating how individuals respond to perceived threats.
The concept is often used in negotiations, where one party may counter an offensive move by altering strategy or terms.

Sports

In sports, a counteroffensive is akin to a team countering an opponent's strategy with a surprised play or sudden attack.
Coaches often analyze opposing teams to prepare counteroffensive strategies to regain the advantage during a game.

Pop Culture

Films and books often depict counteroffensive actions as moments of bravery and skill, showcasing how characters overcome adversity.
Video games frequently incorporate counteroffensive tactics, where players must react to enemy attacks and plan their own strategies.

Translations

Translations of the word "counteroffensive" in other languages:

🇵🇹 contraofensiva

🇮🇳 प्रत्याक्रमण

🇩🇪 Gegenoffensive

🇮🇩 serangan balik

🇺🇦 контрнаступ

🇵🇱 kontratakcja

🇯🇵 反攻 (はんこう)

🇫🇷 contre-offensive

🇪🇸 contraofensiva

🇹🇷 karşı taarruz

🇰🇷 반격 (ban-gyeok)

🇸🇦 هجوم مضاد (hujum mudad)

🇨🇿 protiofenziva

🇸🇰 protiofenzíva

🇨🇳 反攻 (fǎngōng)

🇸🇮 protiofenziva

🇮🇸 gagnárás

🇰🇿 қарсы шабуыл

🇬🇪 კონტრშეტევა (kontrsheteva)

🇦🇿 əks-hücum

🇲🇽 contraofensiva