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.
The first time Guardiola decided to move Messi away from the wing was for defensive reasons.
From BBC • Jun. 7, 2026
Allowed to innovate, to make battlefield adjustments, and to resist the urge to abandon strong defensive positions, they have imposed devastating casualties on the Russians, who are seriously wanting in tactical agility.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 7, 2026
An A student and top defensive player, Raftery also hit .429 with 12 home runs for the Division 1 champions.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 7, 2026
Through most of the game, the excitement was contained to a pitcher’s duel — a chess game of defensive plays, waiting to see who flinched first.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 6, 2026
Her nose twitched and her ears went back at my defensive tone.
From "Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky" by Kwame Mbalia
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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