B2noun formal 2K

Offence

🇬🇧 UK /["/əˈfens/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/əˈfens/"]/

Meaning of Offence

an illegal act

In simple words: A wrong or illegal act that causes hurt or trouble.

Offence in a sentence

• The team's poor performance was a serious offence to their loyal fans.
• He felt that her comments were an offence to his character.
• The police recorded several offences during the protest.
• Driving under the influence is a criminal offence in many countries.
• The offence was committed late at night when few people were around.
• In sports, a strong offence can often lead to victory.
• Her use of aggressive tactics on the field was deemed an offence by the referees.
• The team improved their offence by switching to a more aggressive strategy.

How to use Offence

Use 'offence' in formal contexts, like legal discussions. Avoid using it in casual conversations; 'offense' is more common in American English.

Grammar pattern

offence + (against something)

Memory hint

Think of 'offence' as a fence that's been crossed – you've done something wrong.

Related words

Collocations with Offence

• grave
• heinous
• major
• be
• constitute
• commit
• offence against
• cause
• give
• take
• offence at
• offence to
• no offence
• no offence intended
• no offence meant

Synonyms for Offence

• crime

Opposites of Offence

• defense
• protection
• safety

Common mistakes with Offence

• Confused with 'defense', using them interchangeably.
• Spelling error: often misspelled as 'offense' in British English contexts.
• Mixing up legal and moral sense: think 'wrong' or 'crime' instead.

Frequently asked questions about Offence

What does Offence mean?

A wrong or illegal act that causes hurt or trouble.

What is the definition of Offence?

an illegal act

How do you use Offence in a sentence?

The team's poor performance was a serious offence to their loyal fans.

Can you give another example of Offence?

He felt that her comments were an offence to his character.

What are synonyms for Offence?

Common alternatives include crime.

What is the opposite of Offence?

Opposite meanings include defense, protection, safety.

What words go with Offence?

It commonly pairs with grave, heinous, major, be, constitute, commit, offence against, cause, give, take, offence at, offence to, no offence, no offence intended, no offence meant.

What are common mistakes when using Offence?

Confused with 'defense', using them interchangeably. Spelling error: often misspelled as 'offense' in British English contexts. Mixing up legal and moral sense: think 'wrong' or 'crime' instead.

How do you pronounce Offence?

US: /["/əˈfens/"]/, UK: /["/əˈfens/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Offence formal or informal?

"Offence" is formal, so it fits professional, business, or academic conversations.

When should I use Offence?

Use 'offence' in formal contexts, like legal discussions. Avoid using it in casual conversations; 'offense' is more common in American English.

What CEFR level is Offence?

"Offence" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.