B1noun2K

Offense

UK /["/əˈfens/","/ˈɒfens/"]/US /["/əˈfens/","/ˈɑːfens/"]/

Definition

an illegal act

In simple words: a crime or bad behavior

Examples

The player's offense was strong during the game, leading to a high score.
She felt that his comment was an offense to her dignity.
The defense team worked hard to counter the offense from the opposing side.
Making fun of someone's appearance is a serious offense.
The offense committed by the suspect led to his arrest.

Usage notes

Use 'offense' in legal or formal contexts. Avoid in casual conversation where 'mistake' or 'wrongdoing' may be more suitable.

Grammar pattern

offense + subject

Memory hint

Think of 'offend' — if you offend someone, you've committed an offense.

Collocations

minor offense
serious offense
criminal offense
offense committed
offense against

Synonyms

crime
misdemeanor
transgression
violation
wrongdoing

Antonyms

defense
pardon

Common mistakes

Confused with 'defense' as they sound similar.
Using 'offense' as a verb; it is only a noun.
Incorrectly referring to minor mistakes as 'offenses'.