defensive
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Typically, it is active during election years, serving as a vital coordination hub and turning intelligence about foreign election threats into warnings, defensive measures and offensive operations.
From Salon • May 21, 2026
Had they held on a couple of minutes more, this game would have been viewed much differently - Guardiola showing a new string to his bow with a defensive masterclass against a title rival.
From BBC • May 19, 2026
“But each disaster is a teachable moment, and I’m afraid the defensive tone of this report suggests a limited institutional capacity to learn from bitter experience.”
From Los Angeles Times • May 19, 2026
“I don’t have a problem with people playing tech and being a little bit defensive with the Mag 7,” said Helfstein.
From MarketWatch • May 18, 2026
But off camera, his confidence was paper-thin, and he could be quickly thrown on the defensive.
From "Boots on the Ground: America's War in Vietnam" by Elizabeth Partridge
Vocabulary lists containing defensive
ASVAB Word Knowledge
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ACT Reading Test: Words to Capture Tone, List 2
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Tone and Point of View, List 1
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