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.

After the four-day civil hearing, Circuit Court Judge Eugene C. Griffith Jr. said Boyd’s self-defense claim wasn’t credible, and he ruled that Boyd wasn’t entitled to civil and criminal immunity under the state’s stand-your-ground law.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

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

One of them, labeled defense dispenser, offered self-defense equipment: lightweight body armor, chemical repellents, and a wide selection of handguns.

From "Ready Player One: A Novel" by Ernest Cline