attack
verb (transitive)
UK/əˈtæk/US/əˈtæk/
To take aggressive action against someone or something.
Example Sentences
The army launched an attack at dawn.
He decided to attack the problem from a different angle.
She attacked the task with great enthusiasm.
The attackers breached the security perimeter.
They attacked the company's policies in the meeting.
The boxer prepared to attack his opponent in the next round.
Cybercriminals attack systems to steal sensitive data.
He attacked the issue vigorously during the debate.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
Antonyms
noun (countable)
UK/əˈtæk/US/əˈtæk/
A sudden onset of illness or medical condition.
Example Sentences
She had a panic attack during the presentation.
Migraine attacks can be debilitating and affect daily activities.
He experienced an asthma attack after running in the cold weather.
They rushed her to the emergency room after her seizure attack.
Stress can trigger anxiety attacks in some individuals.
He was diagnosed with frequent allergic attacks.
During the attack, he struggled to breathe properly.
Proper medication can help manage and prevent future attacks.
Thesaurus
Synonyms
How to Use
To take aggressive action against someone or something, often with intent to harm or overwhelm.An “attack” typically involves aggression, either physical—such as punching, shooting, or striking—or figurative, like verbal attacks aiming to hurt someone’s reputation or self-esteem. In a literal sense, predators attack prey for survival, and in conflict or warfare, military forces plan assaults to weaken or defeat an opponent. A computer attack targets systems or networks to gain unauthorized access or disrupt operations.When people say, “He attacked me,” they generally mean they were subjected to sudden violence or aggression. It could also appear metaphorically: “She attacked my argument” might denote vigorous criticism. In each usage, “attack” suggests an offensive move that challenges someone else’s security, dignity, or stability. It often implies going on the offensive rather than defending against potential harm. Depending on context, it can range from minor scuffles to large-scale confrontations or systematic strategies of aggression. Understanding the context—whether physical, verbal, digital, or strategic—clarifies the type of attack and its implications.
Alternatives
If you wish to soften or vary the phrasing, you might say “strike,” “assault,” or “charge” for direct physical aggression. “Criticize,” “challenge,” or “lay into” can capture a verbal onslaught. “Breach” or “intrude” might apply to digital or cybersecurity issues. Each word modifies the tone or scope, from small-scale actions to large, concerted efforts. Still, “attack” remains a broad and direct term for offensive moves or forceful criticisms in both literal and figurative realms.
Writing
In formal or academic writing, specify the nature and scale of an attack: “The data center suffered a cyberattack,” or “Their army launched a pre-dawn attack on the coastal forts.” Defining the attack’s motivation, scale, and outcome helps readers gauge its seriousness. Military or historical contexts may detail who initiated the attack, which tactics they employed, and any geopolitical consequences. If using “attack” figuratively—like to describe harsh rhetoric—indicate that it’s not physical: “He launched a verbal attack on her policies.” Linking evidence or statements clarifies the manner of aggression and its effect on those involved.When discussing emotional or social “attacks,” you might highlight how an individual’s sense of self or credibility was threatened. For instance, “The reporter faced relentless attacks on social media,” underscores negative comments or smear campaigns. By including context—like the specific platform, remarks, or defensive responses—you reveal how or why such attacks can harm reputations or well-being. Thorough descriptions ensure readers understand the scope and consequence of each attack, whether it’s strategic, spontaneous, overt, or covert.
Casual Conversation
In everyday conversation, “attack” might show up when describing negative encounters or unkind criticism: “He just attacked me out of nowhere,” or “My boss attacked my proposal without letting me explain.” Sometimes friends say, “That dog attacked my shoes,” for a playful or minor outburst, or, “The toddler attacked his crayons,” jokingly describing an enthusiastic scribbling session. People might also use it to convey strong disagreement: “She attacked my idea in the meeting,” meaning she tore it apart or dismissed it forcefully.In gaming or sports, “attack” indicates an offensive move—like “Our team decided to attack the opposing defense.” Similarly, talk about “attack strategy” in a video game might refer to an aggressive push to defeat another player. “Attack” can also appear lightly: “The cat attacked the laser pointer,” referring to a playful pounce. Generally, in casual settings, “attack” highlights any sudden or forceful action, but it can vary from lighthearted jokes to more alarming accounts of violence or hostility.
Etymology
“Attack” comes from the French “attaque,” which itself traces to the Italian “attaccare,” meaning “to join battle” or “to touch closely.” Historically, it signified an offensive military move—armies or knights engaging foes. Over time, “attack” broadened to any forceful or confrontational action, physical or figurative. The concept remains anchored in the idea of aggressive advance, whether on a battlefield, in a courtroom argument, or in digital hacking attempts. Modern usage preserves that essence: an intentional initiative to harm, undermine, or challenge another party, pivoting from its military origins to encompass broader conflicts and verbal or virtual onslaughts.
