Defensively: meaning, definitions and examples

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defensively

[ dɪˈfɛnsɪvli ]

^{Context #1}

in sports

in a defensive manner, intending to protect oneself or one's team from being scored on

Synonyms

carefully, guardedly, protectively

Examples of usage

His team played defensively, focusing on blocking shots and intercepting passes.
The player reacted defensively, trying to prevent the opponent from scoring.

^{Context #2}

in a social context

in a way that is protective or designed to defend against criticism or attack

Synonyms

cautiously, guardedly, protectively

Examples of usage

She responded defensively to the accusations, denying any wrongdoing.
He tends to act defensively when questioned about his decisions.

Translations

Translations of the word "defensively" in other languages:

🇵🇹 defensivamente

🇮🇳 रक्षात्मक रूप से

🇩🇪 defensiv

🇮🇩 dengan defensif

🇺🇦 оборонно

🇵🇱 defensywnie

🇯🇵 防御的に

🇫🇷 défensivement

🇪🇸 defensivamente

🇹🇷 savunmacı bir şekilde

🇰🇷 방어적으로

🇸🇦 بشكل دفاعي

🇨🇿 defenzivně

🇸🇰 defenzívne

🇨🇳 防御性地

🇸🇮 defenzivno

🇮🇸 varnarlega

🇰🇿 қорғанысты түрде

🇬🇪 დაცვით

🇦🇿 müdafiəçi olaraq

🇲🇽 defensivamente

Word origin

The word 'defensively' is derived from the adjective 'defensive', which originated in the late 14th century from the Old French 'defensif'. It is related to the Latin word 'defensivus', from 'defendere', meaning 'to ward off, protect'. Over time, 'defensively' has evolved to encompass not only physical protection but also psychological and social defense mechanisms.