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.
Macron said in early March that France and its allies were preparing a "defensive" mission to reopen the strategically vital waterway.
From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026
The senior U.S. official said the likelihood that Iran will shoot at the American ships involved in the blockade once they start seizing tankers is low, because their defensive capability has been so decimated.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 13, 2026
A first home defeat in his 11-game tenure, one victory in four games, no clean sheet in five, a potential central defensive crisis and boos ringing in his ears at half-time.
From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026
There are many variations on this approach, such as shifting to defensive sectors over the summer rather than going to cash.
From MarketWatch • Apr. 13, 2026
This stung the others and put Mother on the defensive, which was exactly what Tru wanted.
From "City Spies" by James Ponti
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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