Offensive – Definition, Meaning, Synonyms & Antonyms

The offensive meaning refers to something that is likely to provoke a negative reaction, often due to being disrespectful, rude, or objectionable.

History of the Word Offensive

Historical Usage

It primarily referred to actions or behaviors that caused displeasure, harm, or resentment. It was used in various contexts, such as warfare (offensive strategies), sports (offensive plays), and personal conduct (offensive language). In literature and rhetoric, it played a role in describing actions that provoked negative reactions.

Modern Usage

It encompasses a wide range of meanings. It can describe behaviors, language, or actions that are objectionable, hurtful, or aggressive.

Table of Contents

English (Offensive As Adjective)

Etymology

Offensive” comes from the Latin “offensus,” rooted in “offendere” (to offend, strike against).

Pronunciation

Pronounced as: /əˈfɛnsɪv/.

Forms of Offensive

Form	Example
Adjective	Offensive remarks
Comparative Degree	More offensive comments
Superlative Degree	Most offensive behavior
Adverb	Behaving offensively
Noun (offense)	Taking offense easily
Noun (offender)	The offender apologized

Derived Terms

Offensively
Offensiveness
Offense

Translations of Offensive

Spanish: ofensivo
French: offensif
German: anstößig
Italian: offensivo
Portuguese: ofensivo
Russian: оскорбительный (oskorbitel’nyy)
Chinese (Simplified): 冒犯的 (màofàn de)
Japanese: 攻撃的な (kōgekiten)
Offensive meaning in Hindi: आक्रमणकारी (aakramankaari)
Urdu: حملہ آور (hamla aawar)

Synonyms

Insulting
Obnoxious
Disrespectful
Rude
Abusive
Repugnant
Repulsive
Inflammatory
Aggressive
Provocative
Vexatious
Disparaging
Disconcerting
Indecorous
Controversial
Outrageous
Unpleasant
Hostile
Hurtful
Censurable

Antonyms

Inoffensive
Respectful
Agreeable
Pleasant
Non-controversial
Tolerant
Polite
Considerate
Courteous
Amicable
Gentle
Non-aggressive
Non-hostile
Unobjectionable
Mild
Kind
Civil
Complimentary
Non-provocative
Harmless

Examples Sentences

His offensive comments upset everyone
The team’s offensive strategy was impressive.
The offensive odor in the room was overwhelming.

FAQs (People May Also Ask)

What does offensive mean?

Offensive causes resentment, or harm, it’s objectionable or aggressive.

Can offensive be used as a noun?

Yes, offense is the noun form, referring to a harmful or objectionable action or behavior.

What’s the adverb form of offensive?

The adverb form is offensively used to describe how something is done offensively.

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