B1nounformalconflictpolitics
US/əˈfen.sɪv/
UK/əˈfen.sɪv/
a large, planned attack by an army, or an organized effort to achieve something
In context
The army launched a major offensive against the northern city.
The government began an offensive against street crime.
The team went on the offensive in the second half.
Words that go with offensive
verb + noun
- launch an offensiveThe rebels launched an offensive at dawn.
adjective + noun
- military offensiveThe military offensive lasted two weeks.
- major offensiveA major offensive is expected in spring.
- diplomatic offensiveThe minister began a diplomatic offensive.
verb + preposition
- go on the offensiveThe company went on the offensive against rivals.
noun + preposition
- offensive againstThere was a new offensive against smuggling.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
They did an offensive last night.Correct: They launched an offensive last night.