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.

The Wall Street Journal revealed in a series of articles last year that police overlooked or ignored evidence that raised questions about the self-defense claim and the integrity of the investigation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

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

This includes Massachusetts, where courts consider factors such as the characteristics of any weapon used when evaluating whether a self-defense shooting was proportional.

From Slate • Mar. 27, 2026

The salad master raised a frying pan in self-defense.

From "The Ear, the Eye, and the Arm" by Nancy Farmer