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

Recent Examples on the Web

The only issue with being oversized would be on the defensive end. — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 18 July 2026

Richard averaged nine points a game in Las Vegas, but made his biggest impact on the defensive side of the floor. — Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 17 July 2026

Simply finding playing time on the defensive side of the ball during the preseason will be a challenge. — Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 July 2026

The comments followed lackluster second quarter financials with execs on the defensive as analysts grilled the company on what Wall Street perceives as a bit of a slump. — Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 16 July 2026

Rhymes for on the defensive

• counteroffensive
• antihypertensive
• apprehensive
• coextensive
• comprehensive
• hypertensive
• hypotensive
• inexpensive
• inoffensive
• normotensive
• expensive
• extensive