on the offensive

idiom

: in or into a situation or position in which one attacks or fights against someone or something
The soldiers are on the offensive.
She went on the offensive to fight the charges against her.

Examples of on the offensive in a Sentence

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Not just on the offensive side, but in general. Fluto Shinzawa, New York Times, 17 Dec. 2025 In recent weeks, Bidunga hasn’t contributed as much on the offensive end. Shreyas Laddha, Kansas City Star, 16 Dec. 2025 Moore became the Wolverines’ head coach in 2024, taking over from Jim Harbaugh, after spending six years on the offensive staff. David Close, CNN Money, 11 Dec. 2025 The team has been hit with injuries on the offensive side of the ball, including losing Evans and Bucky Irving for multiple games. James Brizuela, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for on the offensive

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Cite this Entry

“On the offensive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/on%20the%20offensive. Accessed 23 Dec. 2025.

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