2offensive noun
plural offensives [count] : a large military attack — usually singular ▪ They plan to launch an air offensive before sending in ground troops. ▪ a ground offensive — often used figuratively ▪ Union leaders have mounted an offensive against the company's proposal to limit health benefits. — see also counteroffensive
on the offensive
: in or into a situation or position in which you attack or fight against someone or something
▪ The soldiers are on the offensive. ▪ She went on the offensive to fight the charges against her. ▪ The team was on the defensive in the early part of the game but they went on the offensive in the second half.
▪ The soldiers are on the offensive. ▪ She went on the offensive to fight the charges against her. ▪ The team was on the defensive in the early part of the game but they went on the offensive in the second half.
take the offensive
: to begin to attack or fight against someone or something
▪ Opponents of the development project took the offensive and defeated the land sale.
▪ Opponents of the development project took the offensive and defeated the land sale.
