Offensive: meaning, definitions and examples
😠
offensive
[ əˈfɛnsɪv ]
inappropriate behavior
Causing someone to feel deeply hurt, upset, or angry, typically as a result of insulting or attacking them.
Synonyms
abusive, disrespectful, hurtful, insulting, off-color
Examples of usage
- His offensive remarks towards her were completely uncalled for.
- She found his behavior offensive and disrespectful.
- The use of offensive language is not tolerated in this workplace.
military
An organized and forceful attempt to achieve a goal, typically a political or military one.
Synonyms
assault, attack, campaign, offensive action, onslaught
Examples of usage
- The country launched an offensive against its neighboring state.
- The military offensive was met with strong resistance.
- The rebels planned a major offensive to overthrow the government.
Translations
Translations of the word "offensive" in other languages:
🇵🇹 ofensivo
🇮🇳 अपमानजनक
🇩🇪 beleidigend
🇮🇩 menyinggung
🇺🇦 образливий
🇵🇱 obraźliwy
🇯🇵 攻撃的 (こうげきてき)
🇫🇷 offensant
🇪🇸 ofensivo
🇹🇷 saldırgan
🇰🇷 공격적인
🇸🇦 هجومي
🇨🇿 urážlivý
🇸🇰 urážlivý
🇨🇳 冒犯的 (màofàn de)
🇸🇮 žaljiv
🇮🇸 móðgandi
🇰🇿 қорлайтын
🇬🇪 შეურაცხმყოფელი
🇦🇿 təhqiramiz
🇲🇽 ofensivo
Word origin
The word 'offensive' originated in the mid-17th century from the Latin word 'offensivus', meaning 'attacking'. Over time, it has evolved to encompass not only military attacks but also behaviors that cause harm or upset. The modern usage of 'offensive' reflects its dual nature as both an adjective describing hurtful behavior and a noun referring to aggressive actions.