Word
defensively
Phoneticsde·fen·sive·ly, stress on the second syllable
US/dɪˈfɛnsɪvɫi/
UK/dɪfˈɛnsɪvli/
Adverb of manner
Definition
adv. in a way that shows you are trying to protect yourself from criticism or an attack. You might speak this way if you feel someone is blaming you for something.
adv. in a manner intended to resist or protect against attack, criticism, or challenge. Often describes a communicative style where the speaker anticipates blame.
Examples
“He reacted defensively when I asked about the broken window.”
“The manager spoke defensively during the meeting, insisting that the project delays were not her fault.”
“The team played defensively for the final ten minutes of the match, focusing entirely on protecting their narrow lead rather than attempting to score again.”
Examples
simple
“He reacted defensively when I asked about the broken window.”
contextual
“The manager spoke defensively during the meeting, insisting that the project delays were not her fault.”
complex
“The team played defensively for the final ten minutes of the match, focusing entirely on protecting their narrow lead rather than attempting to score again.”
Usage
Typically follows the verb it modifies or appears at the end of the clause.
Real-World Examples
“This is very common: many doctors, I’m told, seem unaware of the new guidelines and react defensively when challenged.” “Ruben Amorim could not fit him into his 3-4-2-1 system; the Portuguese did not trust him defensively.” Word family
VERB
ADJECTIVE
ADVERB
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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