defence - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
defence Word Meanings
- the action of protecting from attack
- a means of resisting attack
- the legal arguments in a court case
defence Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
defence Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈfɛns/
US
/dɪˈfɛns/
defence Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'de-' (from) + 'fendere' (to strike). Historical origin: Latin → Old French 'defens' → English 'defence'. Memory image: Imagine a knight defending a castle, standing firm against waves of attackers, symbolizing protection and resistance.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
Feet planted, I shift my stance and pull my shoulders back, hands ready to push back a barrage of questions or blows. I keep my guard up as the room tightens, I adjust my breath and turn slightly to meet each new move. It feels like guiding a shield through a gust, steady and flexible, the effort growing as I hold my line. I place my words and push the discussion forward, letting the rhythm of the exchange teach me when to defend and when to step back.
Real Context
Defence is a noun with several closely related meanings. It can denote the act of protecting someone or something from harm or attack, such as a shield or policy designed to guard a country, organization, or person. It can also refer to the means and methods used to resist an opposing force, including strategies, resources, or defenses that reduce risk. In law, defence refers to the arguments and evidence presented by the defendant and their legal team to refute the prosecution's case or to justify innocence or lower liability. Understanding these senses helps avoid mixing up not only British spelling but also legal and everyday uses.
Usage Reminders
- - Spelling: defence is British; defense is American.
- - Use for protection, resistance, and legal arguments.
- - Common collocations: in defence of, national defence, defence attorney.
- - Distinguish noun from verb: defend is the verb.
- - Watch prepositions: in defence of someone/something.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing defence with defense and using the wrong spelling in American contexts
- Thinking defence only means military defence and ignoring legal or personal protection senses
- Mistaking defence as a verb
- Using defence where 'defend' or 'defense' would be the correct form
- Assuming 'in defence of' and 'in defense of' are always interchangeable
Thinking Differences
British spelling signals formal or legal usage; learners often mix defence with the American defense and mix up related words like defend (verb) and defense (noun).
Learning Tips
- Practice spelling differences: defence (BrE) vs defense (AmE).
- Learn the three senses: protection, resistance, and legal defense.
- Use in defence of + noun to express support or justification.
- Pair with verbs: defend, defender, defensive functions.
- Study common collocations (defence attorney, national defence).
- Review example sentences to see context shifts.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'defence'?
A.A type of food
B.An act of protecting something
C.A feeling of happiness
D.A type of dance
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'defence' correctly?
A.She baked a cake in her defence.
B.They played defence for the entire game.
C.The lawyer presented a strong defence in court.
D.He needed defence against the cold weather.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym for 'defence'?
A.Attack
B.Protection
C.Agreement
D.Development
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'defence'?
A.Support
B.Attack
C.Objection
D.Sympathy
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where one might need a defence?
A.When someone is preparing for a debate competition.
B.After losing an item, someone tries to find it again.
C.In a legal situation where one is accused of a crime.
D.While cooking a new recipe for the first time.
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