Defensive Meaning
/dɪˈfɛn.sɪv/Definition, CEFR level B1, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
adjIntended for defence; protective.
adjIntended to deter attack.
Sentence Examples
Defensive driving can help you avoid accidents.
Why are you being so defensive?
As a defensive measure he built a series of coastal forts and watchtowers.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
CEFR Practice Quiz
The coach's ____ attitude made the players feel blamed for the loss.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
____ driving can help you avoid accidents.
Word Origin & History
From Middle French défensif. Morphologically defense + -ive.
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"The Italian opted for Bolton's Cahill alongside captain John Terry - and his decision was rewarded with a goal after only 13 minutes. Bulgaria gave a hint of defensive frailties to come when they failed to clear Young's corner, and when Gareth Barry found Cahill in the box he applied the finish past Nikolay Mihaylov."
— 2011 September 2, Phil McNulty, “Bulgaria 0-3 England”, in BBC:
"[…]Once join'd, the contrary ſhe proves, a thorn
Inteſtin, far within defenſive arms[…]"
— 1671, John Milton, “Samson Agonistes, […].”, in Paradise Regain’d. A Poem. In IV Books. To which is Added, Samson Agonistes, London: […] J[ohn] M[acock] for John Starkey […], →OCLC, pages 63–64, lines 48–49:
"The Germans had developed a highly scientific defensive in which machine-guns replaced rifles and a maximum of punishment was inflicted upon an assaulting force with a minimum of human loss."
— 1916, HG Wells, Mr Britling Sees it Through, London: Hogarth Press, published 1985, page 310:
"Such kinds of defensives are really rather protecting the local companies than the consumers."
— 2007 May 26, Julia Werdigier, “Consolidating the Banks of Europe”, in New York Times:
Explore More B1 Vocabulary Words
CEFR Practice Quiz
The coach's ____ attitude made the players feel blamed for the loss.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
____ driving can help you avoid accidents.