B1noun 2K

Offense

🇬🇧 UK /["/əˈfens/","/ˈɒfens/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/əˈfens/","/ˈɑːfens/"]/

Meaning of Offense

an illegal act

In simple words: a crime or bad behavior

Offense in a sentence

• 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.

How to use Offense

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.

Related words

Collocations with Offense

• minor offense
• serious offense
• criminal offense
• offense committed
• offense against

Synonyms for Offense

• crime
• misdemeanor
• transgression
• violation
• wrongdoing

Opposites of Offense

• defense
• pardon

Common mistakes with Offense

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

Frequently asked questions about Offense

What does Offense mean?

a crime or bad behavior

What is the definition of Offense?

an illegal act

How do you use Offense in a sentence?

The player's offense was strong during the game, leading to a high score.

Can you give another example of Offense?

She felt that his comment was an offense to her dignity.

What are synonyms for Offense?

Common alternatives include crime, misdemeanor, transgression, violation, wrongdoing.

What is the opposite of Offense?

Opposite meanings include defense, pardon.

What words go with Offense?

It commonly pairs with minor offense, serious offense, criminal offense, offense committed, offense against.

What are common mistakes when using Offense?

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

How do you pronounce Offense?

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

When should I use Offense?

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

What CEFR level is Offense?

"Offense" is at B1 level on the CEFR scale.