Words / B1

di-FEND/dɪˈfend/

To defend is to protect a person, place, or idea: defend a policy; defend yourself. Defence is the noun (UK spelling, already in the dictionary). Attack is a common opposite. Defend against / defend from both occur; against is safer in exams. Court: defend a client; sport: defend a title.

Meaning

To protect a person, place, or idea against attack or criticism.

Examples

• “The minister had to defend the policy on live radio.”
• “The back four defended well after the red card.”

Good to know

defend a policy / title / client. Noun: defence (UK). Opposite: attack. Pattern: defend against. Court/sport/politics.

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