defensiveness

USAGE SUMMARY

"defensiveness" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when describing a person's tendency to protect themselves from criticism or perceived threats. Example: "Her defensiveness made it difficult to have an open conversation." Alternative expressions include "self-protection" and "guardedness."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In step with Obama's call for better data in policing, and a public outcry for information about police use-of-force in general, policing leaders are increasingly admitting that carelessness, defensiveness – or, in the worst cases, indifference – does play a role in the failure of the country to track officer-related deaths.

The Guardian

This is where game fans' defensiveness becomes a problem.

The Guardian - Tech

This, suggested Birmingham street artist Mohammed Ali, had led to a greater defensiveness, an inward turn, insularity and paranoia, both within his community and toward it.

The Guardian

You don't have to dig too far to uncover a distressed gentleness on the other side of the pilfered street poses, protective toughness and boastful defensiveness.

The Guardian - Music

Defiance is far more than defensiveness; defiance indicates a belief in success.

The Guardian

"It's an appalling situation if Australia allows a group of [Jewish] businessmen [in Melbourne] to veto policy on the Middle East", Carr summarises in frustration (unsurprisingly, local Zionist groups have responded with fury and defensiveness to the attack).

The Guardian - Opinion

As for Mr Bush, the defensiveness and testiness so evident in Miami may well indicate to his critics a president who has thought through the big issues too little.More important, there are signs that the election is turning at last to address the real challenges facing the president.

The Economist

Mr Laube says the defensiveness of the past is gone: "Now we have a noble cause".That may help in the poor world, but could Europe's hysteria over Frankenfoods (as the British media dubbed GM foods) also stand in the way of Nestlé's wellness products, if they are perceived to involve too much scientific meddling?

The Economist

Some critics point out that, given Mr Campbell's form as a bully of journalists, the BBC's defensiveness was understandable.

The Economist

A synagogue warden explained later that the map was "biblical, not political .The prevailing political sentiment in Jewry today is of aggressive defensiveness, a curious amalgam of victimhood and intolerance.

The Economist

They have seen it as a means to avoid NGO and reputational flak, and to mitigate the rougher edges and consequences of capitalism.This defensiveness starts the argument on the wrong foot, certainly as far as business leaders should be concerned.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When analyzing a situation, differentiate between genuine self-protection and unwarranted "defensiveness". Excessive "defensiveness" can hinder constructive dialogue and problem-solving.

Common error

Avoid phrases like "extreme defensiveness" or "intense defensiveness" unless genuinely warranted. Overusing intensifiers can weaken your argument and suggest emotional bias rather than objective analysis.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "defensiveness" is that of a noun. It refers to the state or quality of being defensive, as Ludwig AI confirms. Examples from Ludwig show it describing attitudes or behaviors in response to perceived threats or criticisms.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "defensiveness" functions primarily as a noun, describing the state of being defensive. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently used, especially in News & Media. While a natural reaction in some contexts, excessive "defensiveness" can hinder communication. Consider alternatives like "guardedness" or "resistance" for nuanced expression. Be mindful of overusing intensifiers and strive for objective analysis. Understanding appropriate usage ensures clarity and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

guardedness

Emphasizes a cautious or restrained approach to protect oneself.

resistance

Highlights opposition or unwillingness to accept something.

protective stance

Focuses on the outward behavior of shielding oneself.

self-preservation

Stresses the instinct to protect oneself from harm or danger.

unreceptiveness

Indicates a lack of openness to new ideas or suggestions.

sensitivity

Focuses on heightened emotional awareness and reactivity.

fight-or-flight response

Highlights the primal reaction to perceived threats.

caution

Emphasizes a careful and wary approach.

insecurity

Underlines the underlying feeling of vulnerability driving defensive behavior.

evasiveness

Highlights the act of avoiding direct confrontation or answering questions.

FAQs

How is "defensiveness" typically used in a sentence?

"Defensiveness" is usually used as a noun to describe a state or quality. For instance, "His "defensiveness" made it difficult to have an open conversation".

What are some alternatives to using the word "defensiveness"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "guardedness", "resistance", or "protective stance".

Is there a difference between "defensiveness" and "defiance"?

"Defensiveness" implies protecting oneself from perceived threats or criticisms, while "defiance" suggests open resistance or disobedience.

When is "defensiveness" considered appropriate or inappropriate?

"Defensiveness" can be a natural reaction in certain situations but becomes inappropriate when it hinders communication, prevents constructive feedback, or leads to denial of responsibility. Balancing justified self-protection with openness is key.