adjective / noun
offensive
An effort to gain an advantage by attacking.
The army launches an offensive to regain control of the border.
Etymology
The noun develops from offensive in its attacking sense. An offensive is a coordinated effort to gain ground or advantage by taking the attack to an opponent.
More examples
- The candidate goes on the offensive against her rival's tax plan.
- The coach favors an offensive strategy built around quick passes.
- Both offensives fail to break through the enemy's defenses.
Forms
offensive · offensives
offense noun — The attacking side or phase of play.