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.

The Gophers’ rebounding advantage included a 10-3 edge on the offensive side. —

Dean Spiros, Twin Cities, 10 Feb. 2025 His shot creation has improved since his rookie season as well, giving the Cavaliers more flexibility on the offensive side of the floor. —

Kristan Hawkins, Newsweek, 6 Feb. 2025 That energy doesn’t just translate on the offensive side of the ball for Shi, who is far from a one-dimensional gunner. —

Joseph Dycus, The Mercury News, 1 Feb. 2025 Nevertheless, Bickerstaff seemed confident after the loss that his team would regroup and find ways to be more creative on the offensive side of the ball. —

Hunter Patterson, The Athletic, 18 Jan. 2025 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 Feb. 2025.

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