defensive - Tìm kiếm | Laban Dictionary - Từ điển Anh - Việt, Việt

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defensive

/dɪˈfɛnsɪv/

US UK

adjective

always used before a noun :defending or protecting someone or something from attack :helping to keep a person or thing safe

The city began building a defensive wall around its borders.

The government decided to join a defensive alliance with several other nations.

Defensive driving classes [=classes that teach you how to be a safe driver] can help you avoid accidents.

We have taken many defensive measures [=we have done things to protect ourselves] against terrorist attacks.

defensive actions - compare 1offensive 4

[more ~; most ~] :behaving in a way that shows that you feel people are criticizing you

I was surprised by his defensive reaction to my suggestion.

defensive behaviors/attitudes

There's no need to get so defensive. I was only making a suggestion.

When we asked her about the mistakes, she became defensive. - often + about

He can be a bit defensive about his work as an artist.

always used before a noun sports :of or relating to the way that players try to stop an opponent from scoring in a game or contest

The coach has a strong defensive strategy.

a defensive player/lineman - compare 1offensive 3

noun

on/onto the defensive

in or into a situation in which you are forced to defend or protect someone or something

We won after keeping the other team on the defensive for most of the game.

Their soldiers appear to be on the defensive.

The company was pushed/forced onto the defensive in the lawsuit.

in or into a position in which you have to argue that something (such as one of your actions or beliefs) is good or correct when others say that it is bad or wrong

The reporter often asks questions that put/place people on the defensive.

He found himself on the defensive when the subject of the environment was discussed.

The company is now on the defensive for its illegal business dealings.