on the defensive

1. Prepared for withstanding aggression or attack, as in The debate team's plan was to keep their opponents on the defensive, or This teacher put students on the defensive about their mistakes. [c. 1600]

Example Sentences

But after a cycle on the defensive, the group is targeting incumbents again in favor of working-class progressives who will shake up the status quo.

From Los Angeles Times

Defensive coordinator Jesse Minter will likely rotate players on the defensive line as well, but that’s an area in which the Chargers have real horses, including Khalil Mack, Tuli Tuipulotu, Teair Tart and Jamaree Caldwell.

From Los Angeles Times

Democrats should not be on the defensive.

From Salon

In Oxnard, a summer of immigration raids has fueled community hostility and distrust, and put city officials on the defensive.

From Los Angeles Times

"I can see that sometimes he relies heavily on his offensive contributions and gives not so much emphasis on the defensive discipline and effort," added Tuchel.

From BBC

Related Words

• anxious 
• apprehensive 
• cautious 
• edgy 
• nervous 
• uneasy