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assault

Q: How does the verb 'assault' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of assault are assail , attack , bombard , and storm . While all these words mean "to make an onslaught upon," assault suggests a direct attempt to overpower by suddenness and violence of onslaught. // commandos assaulted the building from all sides

Q: When could 'assail' be used to replace 'assault'?

While the synonyms assail and assault are close in meaning, assail implies attempting to break down resistance by repeated blows or shots. // assailed the enemy with artillery fire

Q: When is it sensible to use 'attack' instead of 'assault'?

Although the words attack and assault have much in common, attack implies taking the initiative in a struggle. // plan to attack the town at dawn

Q: When would 'bombard' be a good substitute for 'assault'?

The words bombard and assault are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, bombard applies to attacking with bombs or shells. // bombarded the city nightly

Q: When is 'storm' a more appropriate choice than 'assault'?

The words storm and assault can be used in similar contexts, but storm implies attempting to break into a defended position. // preparing to storm the fortress

noun

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Synonyms & Antonyms of assault

(Entry 1 of 2)

1 the act of forcing a person to engage in sexual activity and especially intercourse

attended a class teaching women self-defense against assault

Synonyms for assault

Words Related to assault

acquaintance rape,
date rape,
statutory rape

gang rape

indecent assault,
molestation

defilement,
deflowering

2 the act or action of setting upon with force or violence

was arrested for his assault of the bystander

Synonyms for assault

Words Related to assault

ambuscade,
ambush

sally,
sortie

siege,
storm

whammy

Near Antonyms for assault

assault

verb

Synonyms & Antonyms of assault (Entry 2 of 2)

1 to engage in sexual activity and especially intercourse with a person unwilling or unable to give consent

was registered as a sex offender after assaulting the victim

Synonyms for assault

Words Related to assault

date rape

gang rape

molest

defile,
deflower

2 to take sudden, violent action against

was found guilty of assaulting an officer

enemy forces assaulted the city

Synonyms for assault

Words Related to assault

mug,
rob

envelop,
flank

Phrases Synonymous with assault

Near Antonyms for assault

Frequently Asked Questions About assault

How does the verb assault contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of assault are assail, attack, bombard, and storm. While all these words mean "to make an onslaught upon," assault suggests a direct attempt to overpower by suddenness and violence of onslaught.

commandos assaulted the building from all sides