o
ffen
sive
ly
1
in a manner that causes upset, annoyance, or disgust
- He spoke offensively about a culture he didn't understand.
- The comedian joked offensively about serious topics.
- She rolled her eyes offensively every time someone else spoke.
- He reacted offensively to what was meant as constructive criticism.
- The advertisement was taken down because it portrayed women offensively.
Synonyms:
2
with deliberate acts of hostility, especially in military or politics
- The army moved offensively into enemy territory.
- They responded offensively to the diplomatic sanctions.
- The team acted offensively in the debate, constantly interrupting the other side.
- Protesters claimed the police had behaved offensively during the arrests.
- The general ordered them to strike offensively before dawn.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
3
in a way that relates to scoring points or advancing in a game
- The team played offensively in the second half and quickly tied the game.
- He's talented offensively, but needs to work on his defense.
- They've struggled offensively since losing their star striker.
- She contributes more offensively than any other player on the court.
- The coach praised the squad for performing offensively with creativity and speed.
Antonyms: