expression, godan verb (-ru)
go on the defensive; play it safe
Used when someone shifts from an active or aggressive stance to a cautious, protective one, often in sports, business, or personal interactions.
試合の後半、相手チームは守りに入った。
In the second half, the opposing team went on the defensive.
彼は失
Afraid of failure, he's playing it safe and not trying new things.