counter-attack

counter-attack

The team launches a counter-attack to regain the ball.

Definition

  1. Noun:

    • A military offensive: a "counter-attack" is an attack made in response to an attack by an enemy, intended to regain lost ground or repel the enemy.
    • A retaliatory action: in sports, business, or personal contexts, a "counter-attack" is a strategic move to counter an opponent's advance or criticism.

  2. Verb:

    • To launch a retaliatory offensive: to attack in response to an enemy's attack, especially in a military or competitive situation.
Usage Examples

  • Noun:

    • The army launched a swift counter-attack after the enemy's initial assault. (A military offensive in response to an earlier attack.)
    • In chess, a well-timed counter-attack can turn the game in your favour. (A retaliatory move in a competitive context.)

  • Verb:

    • The team decided to counter-attack after the opposing side scored. (To launch a retaliatory move in a game.)
    • The company will counter-attack by releasing a new product line. (To respond to a competitor's move.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to mount a counter-attack": to prepare and launch a retaliatory offensive.

    • The rebels mounted a counter-attack at dawn. (They organized and executed a response to the enemy.)

  • "to be on the counter-attack": to be engaged in a retaliatory offensive.

    • The politician was on the counter-attack after the scandal broke. (She was actively defending herself by attacking her accusers.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Counter-attack (adj): relating to or used in a counter-attack.

    • The general ordered a counter-attack strategy. (A plan focused on retaliation.)

  • Counter-attacker (n): a person or group that launches a counter-attack.

    • The chess player is known as a skilled counter-attacker. (Someone who excels at retaliatory moves.)
Synonyms
  • Retaliation: the act of returning an attack or injury.
  • Reprisal: a military or political action taken in response to an attack.
  • Riposte: a quick, sharp reply or return attack (often used in fencing or debate).
Phrasal Verbs
  • Counter-attack against: to launch a retaliatory offensive directed at someone or something.
    • The team counter-attacked against the opposing side's aggressive play. (They responded to the opponent's aggression.)
Related Idioms

  • Strike back: to attack in retaliation.

    • After the initial blow, they struck back with a fierce counter-attack. (They responded forcefully.)

  • Turn the tables: to reverse the situation to one's advantage, often through a counter-attack.

    • By launching a counter-attack, they turned the tables on their rivals. (They changed the outcome in their favour.)