on the defensive
IdiomsExample Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
On any given play, players on the defensive line can drop back into coverage while defensive backs can fly in from unexpected angles.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 30, 2026
Thybulle made a name for himself on the defensive end of the floor.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 4, 2026
With the hours ticking down to the closing ceremony, when Japan will hand over the baton to Doha, top officials were on the defensive.
From Barron's ● Oct. 4, 2026
Buckingham Palace is "on the defensive", the i Paper reports.
From BBC ● Sep. 17, 2026
“No—not sneaking—” Now Lily was on the defensive.
From "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" by J.K. Rowling
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
