What is offensive? Pronunciation and usage in English

offensive means . Learn how to pronounce and use offensive through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of offensive

offensiveadjective

/əˈfɛnsɪv/
Definition & pronunciation of offensive

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "offensive." It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables: The word is divided into three syllables:

  • Off- (like "off" as in "off the table")
  • en- (rhymes with "hen")
  • -sense (like "sense" as in "make sense")

2. Pronunciation Guide:

  • Off: /ɔf/ (The "o" sound is a bit open, like in "caught")
  • en: /ən/ (a short, unstressed "uh" sound – almost like you’re barely saying it)
  • sense: /sɛns/ (The “e” is short and quick. The “ns” is like the “ns” in “honest”)

3. Putting it together:

The whole word is pronounced: /ˈɒfˌɛns/

Here’s a more detailed breakdown with emphasis:

  • ˈɒf (Strong emphasis on this first syllable – your voice should rise slightly)
  • ˌɛns (The second syllable gets a little less emphasis, and it’s a pause between the two sounds)

Tips & Common Mistakes:

  • Don't say "off-en-sense." It's easy to separate them, but the rhythm is key.
  • The “en” is very short. This is a frequent mistake. Don't elongate it.
  • The "sense" is not like "sense" as in "wisdom." It's a pure "sense" sound.

Resources for Listening:

  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/offensive/ (This website lets you hear native speakers pronounce the word.)
  • Google Translate: Type "offensive" in Google Translate and click the speaker icon.

To help me give you an even more tailored response, could you tell me:

  • Are you an English speaker trying to perfect your pronunciation, or are you a non-native speaker learning the word?

Usage and examples with the word offensive in English

Let's break down how to use the word "offensive" effectively in English. It's a versatile word with several different meanings, so understanding the context is key. Here's a detailed explanation:

1. As an Adjective (Most Common Usage): Describing Something Causing Anger or Displeasure

  • Meaning: This is the most frequent way "offensive" is used. It describes something that is upsetting, insulting, or likely to provoke anger in someone. It suggests a violation of someone’s sensibilities or values.

  • Examples:

    • "That joke was incredibly offensive." (It upset me.)
    • "His comments about her appearance were offensive and hurtful." (They were insulting.)
    • "The artwork was considered offensive by some viewers." (It provoked disagreement.)
    • "I found his behavior offensive." (I was disgusted and angered.)

  • Synonyms: insulting, disrespectful, inappropriate, upsetting, disagreeable, shocking, objectionable.

2. As a Noun: An Action or Behavior Considered Offensive

  • Meaning: In this case, "offensive" refers to the specific act or behavior that is causing offense.

  • Examples:

    • "He made an offensive remark about her religion." (The remark itself was offensive.)
    • "The company received criticism for its offensive advertising campaign." (The campaign as a whole was offensive.)
    • “His aggressive behavior was considered an offensive act.” (The behaviour itself was offensive)

3. As an Adjective (Related to Sports/Games): Moving Towards the Opponent

  • Meaning: In sports (particularly football, soccer, and hockey), "offensive" describes the team or player who is trying to score points – they are attacking.

  • Examples:

    • "Our offensive line needs to improve." (They're trying to block to make way for the offense.)
    • “The team's offensive strategy was geared towards a quick passing game.” (Their strategy was focused on attacking)

4. As an Adjective (Related to Smell/Taste): Strong or Unpleasant

  • Meaning: Less common, but "offensive" can describe a smell or taste that is extremely strong and unpleasant.

  • Examples:

    • "The room had an offensive odor." (It smelled really bad.)
    • “The punch was so strong it had an offensive taste.” (It was very unpleasant to taste).

Important Considerations & Nuances:

  • Subjectivity: What is considered "offensive" is often subjective - it depends on the individual, their culture, and the context. Something offensive to one person might not be offensive to another.

  • Sensitivity: When discussing potentially offensive topics, it's vital to be sensitive and respectful. Avoid generalizations and acknowledge that people have different experiences.

  • Tone: The word "offensive" can be quite strong. Consider whether a milder word (like "disrespectful," "inappropriate," or "upsetting") might be more suitable in some situations.

How to Choose the Right Meaning:

  1. Look at the surrounding words: The context will usually make it clear whether "offensive" is being used to describe a feeling, a behavior, a game strategy, or a smell.

  2. Consider the speaker's intent: Are they expressing their own feelings of being offended, or are they describing something that has offended someone else?

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to use the word "offensive" in? (e.g., writing a story, a conversation, an email, etc.)
  • Can you share the sentence or phrase you’re struggling with?

Synonyms for the word offensive

Practice with vocabulary offensive

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Many employees found the manager's recent joke about their work-life balance to be quite ______________________________.
  2. The company issued an apology after its new advertising campaign was widely criticized for its ______________________________ stereotypes.
  3. During the negotiation, the other party's proposals felt rather ______________________________ and designed to provoke a reaction.
  4. His dismissive attitude towards his colleagues' ideas was generally considered ______________________________ and unprofessional.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The speaker's comments regarding cultural differences were widely perceived as: a) constructive b) flattering c) acceptable d) offensive e) inappropriate

  2. Which of the following describes a strong, unpleasant odor emanating from the factory? a) fragrant b) sweet-smelling c) delightful d) offensive e) noxious

  3. The football team's strategy was to maintain a strong attacking stance throughout the first half. This approach is best described as: a) defensive b) protective c) cautious d) offensive e) aggressive

  4. During the board meeting, Mr. Davies' constant interruptions and loud remarks made him seem quite ______. a) charming b) polite c) obnoxious d) considerate e) agreeable

  5. The persistent, sharp, and acrid smell of burnt rubber filled the air, making it difficult to breathe. The smell was: a) subtle b) fragrant c) pungent d) mild e) delicate

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. His insensitive remarks about the team's failure were very hurtful to everyone involved. Rewrite the sentence using "offensive" or a related word form.
  2. The military's initial strike aimed to disorient the enemy forces quickly. Rewrite the sentence using "offensive" or a related word form.
  3. The harsh criticism from the supervisor left the new employee feeling quite disheartened. Rewrite the sentence, replacing "harsh" with a suitable alternative (do not use "offensive").

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. offensive
  2. offensive
  3. provocative
  4. disrespectful

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. d) offensive, e) inappropriate
  2. d) offensive, e) noxious
  3. d) offensive, e) aggressive
  4. c) obnoxious
  5. c) pungent

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. His offensive remarks about the team's failure were very hurtful to everyone involved.
  2. The military's initial offensive aimed to disorient the enemy forces quickly.
  3. The scathing criticism from the supervisor left the new employee feeling quite disheartened.

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