ENGLISH
REFERENCE

assaulting

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //əˈsɔɫtɪŋ// UK //ɐsˈɒltɪŋ// as·sault·ing

v. describing something that attacks or challenges you in a strong, often unpleasant way. You use it for sounds, smells, or ideas that feel aggressive.

v. characterized by a forceful, aggressive, or intrusive quality; often used to describe sensory experiences or arguments that are overwhelming or objectionable.


SIMPLE

The loud music was assaulting to my ears.

CONTEXTUAL

The report contained assaulting claims that the board found difficult to ignore.

COMPLEX

The film's assaulting visual style, with its jarring cuts and harsh lighting, mirrored the protagonist's internal chaos and sense of disorientation.

Synonyms
Usage

Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'seem' or 'feel'.

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