self-defense

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.

At 2:10 a.m., eight hours after the shooting, Jones filed a report concluding that Spivey’s homicide appeared a clear case of self-defense.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

“Excessive force in self-defense is one of the key aspects of this case,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

One thing the Supreme Court made clear in these landmark cases, though, is that the core purpose of the Second Amendment is lawful self-defense.

From Slate • Mar. 27, 2026

The agents involved in the shootings have not spoken publicly, but a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security defended Good’s shooting, saying the agent acted in self-defense.

From Salon • Mar. 27, 2026

Mother had no choice but to laugh at this ridiculous self-defense, which irritated Mrs. van Daan.

From "The Diary of a Young Girl" by Anne Frank