on the offensive

phrase

: in or into a situation or position in which one attacks or fights against someone or something
The soldiers are on the offensive.
She went on the offensive to fight the charges against her.

Examples of on the offensive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The Chargers remain battered on the offensive line, with Joe Alt and Kayode Awosika out with injuries. — Joaquin Ruiz, Los Angeles Times, 17 Oct. 2026 Once again, injuries have taken a toll on the offensive line, but that’s far from the only problem. — Andy Scholes, CNN Money, 15 Oct. 2026 The Eagles are already without left guard Landon Dickerson and right tackle Lane Johnson on the offensive line. — Cbs Philadelphia, CBS News, 6 Oct. 2026 Suamataia didn’t start at left guard on the offensive line for the Chiefs in their AFC West showdown with the Raiders. — Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 5 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for on the offensive

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!