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on the offensive
01
in the position or state of readiness for answering any attack or criticism
What is the origin of the idiom "on the offensive" and when to use it?
The origin of the idiom "on the offensive" dates back to warfare strategies and tactics, particularly during battles and campaigns. It is used to signify a state in which a military force actively engages the enemy, advances, and takes the initiative in attacking the opposing forces rather than being in a defensive or passive posture.
Example
During the battle, the infantry was on the offensive, launching a series of coordinated attacks against enemy positions.
In response to the enemy's incursion, the military shifted from a defensive stance to being on the offensive, launching a counteroffensive to reclaim lost territory.
The air force was on the offensive, conducting a series of bombing runs to disrupt the enemy's supply lines.
