on the defensive

phrase

: in the state or condition of being prepared or required to defend against attack or criticism
keeping his political opponent on the defensive

Examples of on the defensive in a Sentence

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The Vikings, meanwhile, leaned once again on the defensive unit that has become the backbone of this unexpected start. — Rick Maese, Washington Post, 26 Oct. 2026 While there are no true stars on the defensive front, Ezekiel Durham-Campbell is a name to know. — Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 Oct. 2026 The Miami Heat usually has high expectations on the defensive end. — Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 19 Oct. 2026 During his first two years as the Lakers coach, Redick admired Williams’ intent on the defensive end from afar and commended the forward’s willingness to defend other teams’ star players. — Los Angeles Times, 17 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for on the defensive

Rhymes for on the defensive

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Browse Nearby Words

on the decrease
on the defensive
on the diagonal
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Cite this Entry

“On the defensive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/on%20the%20defensive. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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