offensive
Translation
offensive, insulting, aggressive
Examples
His comments were very offensive.
His comments were very offensive.
The team launched an offensive attack.
The team launched an offensive attack.
Grammar Patterns
((offensive to sb.)) causing someone to feel upset or angry His comments were offensive to many people.
((an offensive (noun))) relating to attack The team launched an offensive attack.
Similar Words
Synonyms: insulting, rude, disrespectful; Antonyms: pleasant, polite
Etymology
From Latin 'offensivus', from 'offendere' meaning 'to strike against'. It relates to causing offense or being used for attack.
Memory Tips
Something that is 'offensive' causes 'offense' to someone. Think of a sports team on the 'offense' (attack).