守勢
しゅ
せ
い
Meanings
1
noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
defensive; being on the defensive
Used for a defensive posture or stance, often in contrast to 攻勢 (offensive). Common in sports, military, and figurative contexts.
In the second half of the match, the team was forced onto the defensive.
There is no chance of winning if we stay on the defensive.
Usage patterns
- 〈人〉が守勢に立つto be put/placed on the defensive
Facing objections, he was put on the defensive.
- 守勢に回るto turn defensive; to switch to a defensive position
In the second half, the team turned defensive.
- 守勢を強いられるto be forced into a defensive position
Under the barrage of tough questions, the minister was forced onto the defensive.