being on the defensive; defensive posture
Originally a swordsmanship term for receiving an opponent's strike; now used broadly for being forced into a passive or defensive position in arguments, negotiations, or competition.
Faced with his tough questions, I was completely on the defensive.
In a discussion, it's important not to stay on the defensive but to actively express your opinions.
防戦 emphasizes the act of fighting defensively, while 受け太刀 focuses on the passive state of receiving attacks or criticism.
Compound of 受け (uke, 'receiving') and 太刀 (tachi, 'long sword'), referring to the act of parrying or receiving an opponent's sword strike. The figurative sense developed from this martial context.