WordGarden.iodefensive
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /dɪfˈɛnsɪv/
US
- /dɪˈfɛnsɪv/
Meanings
Adjective
intended to protect against attack or harm rather than to attack
quick to feel criticized and to justify or protect oneself
focused on stopping the other team from scoring or gaining an advantage
Beyond the definition
Being defensive means protecting yourself from criticism, attack, or harm—whether physical or emotional. Think of a turtle pulling into its shell; that's being defensive! You might be defensive about your choices if someone questions them, or a sports team might play defensively to prevent the other team from scoring. It's not always about being attacked, though—sometimes people become defensive even when no attack is intended, simply because they feel vulnerable. A defensive driver anticipates potential hazards and acts cautiously to avoid them.
The word "defensive" describes a posture or behavior aimed at protecting oneself against perceived threats. Originally rooted in military strategy—think of building fortifications to defend a castle—the term now applies to many areas of life.
In its most literal sense, defensive refers to actions taken to ward off physical attack. A boxer with a strong defensive style focuses on blocking punches and avoiding damage. However, "defensive" is often used figuratively to describe emotional or psychological protection. If someone gets upset when you offer constructive criticism, they might be described as "getting defensive." This means they are reacting in a way that shields their ego or beliefs from what they perceive as an attack.
A defensive strategy isn't always negative. In sports, playing defensively is focused on preventing the opponent from scoring. A defensive driver anticipates potential hazards and takes precautions to avoid accidents. However, consistently being defensive can create barriers in relationships and hinder open communication. It suggests a lack of trust or a fear of vulnerability.
You might hear phrases like "defensive posture" (in boxing), "a defensive attitude" (in conversation), or even "defensive programming" (writing code to anticipate and handle errors). Ultimately, being defensive is about safeguarding oneself—whether physically, emotionally, or strategically—from potential harm.
Examples
- 1
Personal criticism
He got defensive when I asked why he was late.
- 2
Workplace feedback
Try not to sound defensive when you get feedback at work.
- 3
Protective attitude
She's very defensive about her younger brother.
- Patterndefensive about + person/thing
quick to protect that person or thing from criticism, or get upset about criticism
- 4
Public criticism
After the interview, the minister was on the defensive.
- Phraseon the defensive
trying to protect yourself from criticism or attack
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Sports tactics
The team used a defensive strategy for most of the second half.
- 6
Business strategy
It was a defensive move by the company, not a real attempt to grow.
- 7
Driving safety
The course teaches defensive driving for busy city roads.
- Phrasedefensive driving
driving in a careful way that helps you avoid other people's mistakes
See also
Similar
- guarded
- self-protective
- protective
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- get defensive
- defensive about
- defensive attitude
- defensive response
Word family
Explore
- criticism
- emotional self-protection
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- defensiveadjectivenoun