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

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

This week began with one starter on the offensive line and three on the defensive line not taking part in practice Monday. —

NBC News, 6 Dec. 2024 Nebraska must add pieces via the transfer portal on the offensive line and at running back, perhaps among other spots. —

Jesse Temple, The Athletic, 21 Nov. 2024 So while there’s a lot of work to be done on the offensive line and the Bears will have to hit on their moves there, Odunze profiles as a potential difference-maker. —

Brad Biggs, Chicago Tribune, 18 Nov. 2024 The slight decline in diversity on the offensive side of the ball comes even as the league office continues to push for more non-white coaches to receive entry-level opportunities there. —

Tom Schad, USA TODAY, 13 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for on the offensive

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“On the offensive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/on%20the%20offensive. Accessed 18 Dec. 2024.

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