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View definitions for on the defensive

on the defensive

adverb as in defensively

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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.

"I asked, how do I deal with this conversation but not be on the defensive."

From BBC

But he has been on the defensive at home, especially in recent weeks, as his government has been grappling with losses in recent local elections and a bribery scandal involving his sister, who is accused of taking kickbacks from drug companies seeking government contracts.

From BBC

They mark his first open market stock purchases since 2020 and a sign of his investment in the firm, which has been on the defensive this year.

From BBC

But after a cycle on the defensive, the group is targeting incumbents again in favor of working-class progressives who will shake up the status quo.

Defensive coordinator Jesse Minter will likely rotate players on the defensive line as well, but that’s an area in which the Chargers have real horses, including Khalil Mack, Tuli Tuipulotu, Teair Tart and Jamaree Caldwell.

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From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.

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