on the defensive

phrase

: in the state or condition of being prepared or required to defend against attack or criticism
keeping his political opponent on the defensive

Examples of on the defensive in a Sentence

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Factory managers were often on the defensive, since raising vision problems could sound like a critique of their management. — Jasmin Malik Chua, Footwear News, 31 July 2026 During the regular season, though, James conserves energy, and much of that shows up on the defensive end. — Tony Jones, New York Times, 30 July 2026 One area where Okot is still developing is on the defensive end. — Micahya Costen, AJC.com, 28 July 2026 Sneed also rose to the occasion on the defensive end, guarding KU legend Frank Mason III. — Christian Marshall, Kansas City Star, 23 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for on the defensive

Rhymes for on the defensive

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Browse Nearby Words

on the decrease
on the defensive
on the diagonal
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Cite this Entry

“On the defensive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/on%20the%20defensive. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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