on the 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.
On the streets of the capital Tirana, protesters have cited the project to air grievances about unchecked power, environmental degradation and real-estate development, putting the country’s Prime Minister Edi Rama on the defensive.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 11, 2026
Once on the offensive, in most places across Myanmar the resistance is now on the defensive.
From BBC • Jun. 9, 2026
“Really happy for him on a personal level. But also just for our team, he’s brought a really high level of consistency, particularly on the defensive end, and with his effort throughout the season.”
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 13, 2026
He’s staying on the defensive until oil flows normalize, betting on companies with strong balance sheets and those involved in the AI infrastructure buildout, such as John Deere, Caterpillar, and HVAC-maker Johnson Controls.
From Barron's • Apr. 12, 2026
A serious face put the smiler on the defensive, a rare smile put a nervous witness at ease.
From "The Westing Game" by Ellen Raskin
