Offensive
/əˈfɛnsɪv/
Definitions
2 meaningsCausing someone to feel hurt, angry, or upset.
/əˈfɛnsɪv/
Causing anger or resentment; insulting.
His comments were deeply offensive to the community.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone says something mean that makes you feel really angry. That's offensive! It's like when someone's joke goes too far, or they say something that's not nice.
👶 For kids: When something is offensive, it makes you feel bad or angry.
More Examples
The smell from the garbage was offensive.
I found his behavior offensive and unprofessional.
How It's Used
"The comedian's jokes were considered offensive by many in the audience."
"Hate speech is often considered offensive and harmful."
Intended or designed to attack or take the initiative.
/əˈfɛnsɪv/
Used for or relating to attack; aggressive.
The army launched an offensive against the enemy.
💡 Simply: Imagine your team is trying to score in a game, or soldiers are going to attack. This is being 'offensive', like taking the first step.
👶 For kids: When something is offensive, it means it's trying to attack or go first, like in a game or a fight.
More Examples
The team's offensive tactics were very effective.
An offensive lineman helps protect the quarterback.
How It's Used
"The general launched an offensive to retake the city."
"The team's offensive strategy focuses on scoring quickly."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
take offense
To feel hurt or insulted by something.
"She took offense at his rude remarks about her cooking."
From Middle French *offensive* or directly from Latin *offensīvus*, from *offendō* ('to strike against, offend').
The term 'offensive' has been used since the 15th century, originally relating to the act of attacking.
Memory tip
Think of something that *offends* your senses.
Word Origin
"to strike against"