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 Horned Frogs expected to take a leap with so much retention on the defensive line, and so far the defense has exceeded expectations. — Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 12 Oct. 2026

Most of Mora’s mileage as an assistant was on the defensive side of the ball. — Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 10 Oct. 2026

Canada had 23 points and eight assists in the Game 2 victory and was disruptive on the defensive end. — ABC News, 8 Oct. 2026

Thybulle made a name for himself on the defensive end of the floor. — Broderick Turner, Los Angeles Times, 4 Oct. 2026

Rhymes for on the defensive

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