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.

He said he isn’t keen on revising the constitution, however, believing it would risk weakening Japan’s commitment to military action only in self-defense.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 28, 2026

Many states also consider a person’s attempts to retreat, or otherwise avoid a perceived threat, when evaluating self-defense claims.

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

Byers said he kept the gun for self-defense and only fired it on New Year’s Eve and the Fourth of July in celebration.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 12, 2026

Others said they reject violence entirely, or they are only willing to use it in self-defense.

From "The (Mostly) True Story of Cleopatra's Needle" by Dan Gutman