Cool MateDefence
UK /["/dɪˈfens/"]/US /["/dɪˈfens/","/ˈdiːfens/"]/
Definition
the act of protecting somebody/something from attack, criticism, etc.
In simple words: Protection from harm or danger.
Examples
- The team's defence was strong, preventing the opposing players from scoring any goals.
- In the courtroom, the defence presented compelling evidence to support their case.
- The country invested heavily in its national defence to protect against potential threats.
- He mounted a vigorous defence of his actions, arguing that he had done nothing wrong.
- The legal defence team worked tirelessly to ensure their client received a fair trial.
Usage notes
Used in both formal and informal contexts. Common in legal, sports, and military discussions. Avoid in casual conversations unless relevant.
Grammar pattern
defend + object
Memory hint
Think of 'defense' — protecting a fence from intruders!
Collocations
- adequate
- effective
- immune
- come to
- leap to
- rush to
- in defence of
- defence against
- weapons of defence
- effective
- strong
- coastal
- put up
- bolster
- improve
- mechanism
- defence against
- capability
- establishment
- force
- good
- robust
- solid
- conduct
- make
- mount
- attorney
- counsel
- lawyer
- in somebody’s defence
- defence of
- defence to
- counsel for the defence
- good
- robust
- solid
- conduct
- make
- mount
- attorney
- counsel
- lawyer
- in somebody’s defence
- defence of
- defence to
- counsel for the defence
- good
- solid
- staunch
- play
- put up
- destroy
- in defence
- on defence
Synonyms
- protection
- safeguard
- shield
- preservation
- security
Antonyms
- attack
- offense
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'defense'; remember 'defence' is British English.
- Incorrectly using as a verb; 'defence' is a noun.
- Mispronouncing the ending; ensure the 'ce' sounds like 's'.