The offensive is something that is likely to provoke a negative reaction, often due to being disrespectful, rude, or objectionable.
History of the Word Offensive
Historical Usage
It primarily referred to actions or behaviors that caused displeasure, harm, or resentment. It was used in various contexts, such as warfare (offensive strategies), sports (offensive plays), and personal conduct (offensive language). In literature and rhetoric, it played a role in describing actions that provoked negative reactions.
Modern Usage
It encompasses a wide range of meanings. It can describe behaviors, language, or actions that are objectionable, hurtful, or aggressive.
English (Offensive As Adjective)
Etymology
Offensive” comes from the Latin “offensus,” rooted in “offendere” (to offend, strike against).
Pronunciation
Pronounced as: /əˈfɛnsɪv/.
Forms of Offensive
| Form | Example |
|---|---|
| Adjective | Offensive remarks |
| Comparative Degree | More offensive comments |
| Superlative Degree | Most offensive behavior |
| Adverb | Behaving offensively |
| Noun (offense) | Taking offense easily |
| Noun (offender) | The offender apologized |
Derived Terms
- Offensively
- Offensiveness
- Offense
Translations of Offensive
- Spanish: ofensivo
- French: offensif
- German: anstößig
- Italian: offensivo
- Portuguese: ofensivo
- Russian: оскорбительный (oskorbitel’nyy)
- Chinese (Simplified): 冒犯的 (màofàn de)
- Japanese: 攻撃的な (kōgekiten)
- Hindi: आक्रमणकारी (aakramankaari)
- Urdu: حملہ آور (hamla aawar)
Synonyms
- Insulting
- Obnoxious
- Disrespectful
- Rude
- Abusive
- Repugnant
- Repulsive
- Inflammatory
- Aggressive
- Provocative
- Vexatious
- Disparaging
- Disconcerting
- Indecorous
- Controversial
- Outrageous
- Unpleasant
- Hostile
- Hurtful
- Censurable
Antonyms
- Inoffensive
- Respectful
- Agreeable
- Pleasant
- Non-controversial
- Tolerant
- Polite
- Considerate
- Courteous
- Amicable
- Gentle
- Non-aggressive
- Non-hostile
- Unobjectionable
- Mild
- Kind
- Civil
- Complimentary
- Non-provocative
- Harmless
Examples Sentences
- His offensive comments upset everyone
- The team’s offensive strategy was impressive.
- The offensive odor in the room was overwhelming.
FAQs (People May Also Ask)
What does offensive mean?
Offensive causing resentment, or harm, it’s objectionable or aggressive in nature.
Can offensive be used as a noun?
Yes, offense is the noun form, referring to a harmful or objectionable action or behavior.
What’s the adverb form of offensive?
The adverb form is “offensively,” used to describe how something is done in an offensive manner.