B2adjectivepsychologyconflict
US/dɪˈfen.sɪv/
UK/dɪˈfen.sɪv/
protecting against attack; or anxious and quick to justify yourself when you feel criticized
In context
He gets defensive whenever someone questions his decisions.
The army built a defensive wall along the northern border.
Don't be so defensive; I was only asking a question.
Words that go with defensive
adjective + noun
- defensive positionThe troops took up a defensive position on the hill.
- defensive measuresThe company took defensive measures against cyberattacks.
- defensive toneHer defensive tone made the argument worse.
- defensive drivingHe took a course in defensive driving.
adverb + adjective
- overly defensiveTry not to sound overly defensive in the interview.
adjective + preposition
- defensive aboutHe is very defensive about his weight.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
She is defensive to criticism.Correct: She is defensive about criticism.