Counteroffensive: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.