take offense
idiom
: to become angry or upset by something that another person has said or done : to be offended by something
He took offense when I suggested exchanging the gift.
—often + atShe takes offense at any criticism.
Examples of take offense in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Your friends might take offense at this as the moon travels through Aquarius.
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USA TODAY, 7 Nov. 2024
Young people today seemed determined to take offense.
—Lizz Schumer, Peoplemag, 13 Sep. 2024
Online commentators and Reddit dwellers were quick to take offense, not only for suggesting the fan letter shortcut but also for encouraging lazy parenting.
—Megan Morrone, Axios, 31 July 2024
Tip Above all else, grandparents should aim to be patient with new parents and avoid being quick to take offense.
—Susan Adcox, Parents, 31 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for take offense 
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USA TODAY, 7 Nov. 2024
Young people today seemed determined to take offense.
—Lizz Schumer, Peoplemag, 13 Sep. 2024
Online commentators and Reddit dwellers were quick to take offense, not only for suggesting the fan letter shortcut but also for encouraging lazy parenting.
—Megan Morrone, Axios, 31 July 2024
Tip Above all else, grandparents should aim to be patient with new parents and avoid being quick to take offense.
—Susan Adcox, Parents, 31 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for take offense
Dictionary Entries Near take offense
Cite this Entry
“Take offense.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/take%20offense. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.
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