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Defence - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Defence is the act of protecting someone or something from harm, danger, or attack. It can also refer to the justification of an action or idea in an argument.

defence

/dɪˈfɛns/ /dɪˈfens/

Definition:

The action of protecting from harm or danger, or the justification of an argument.

Synonyms:

protection, safeguard, security, shield

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

attack, offense

Common Collocations:

defence mechanism, defence strategy, national defence, self-defence

Derivatives:

defend, defensive, defensible

Usage Tips:

Use "defence" (British) or "defense" (American) depending on the variant of English you are writing in.

Common Phrases:

in defence of, line of defence, best defence is a good offense

Etymology:

From Old French "defens," from Latin "defensus," past participle of "defendere" (to ward off).

Examples:

  • 1. The team's strong defence won them the match.
  • 2. She spoke in defence of her friend's actions.
  • 3. The castle's high walls provided excellent defence against invaders.
  • 4. He studied criminal defence law at university.

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