feel defensive of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "feel defensive of" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward.
It can be used when expressing a sense of protectiveness or defensiveness regarding someone or something. Example: "I often feel defensive of my friend when others criticize her choices."

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Do you still feel defensive of him?

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

These words also hurt others and make people feel defensive instead of cooperative.

WikiHow

Just over half of the demands made by activists in 2014 fell into these categories, according to FactSet.The typical CEO will feel defensive, and his board of directors will dither.

The Economist

Perhaps it's because it makes us feel defensive, and so, instead of conscientiously examining a) the social conditions that have led to our fetishisation of female pain and submission, and b) the ways in which our sexual practices strengthen and reinforce those social conditions, we shout "kink-shamer".

The Guardian - Opinion

"Nobody should feel defensive or unhappy about the quality of treatment they've received," he said.

The New York Times

"They don't want things looked at because they were a part of it and feel defensive.

Independent

Mr. Cheney summed up his view of the prisoners held at Guantánamo Bay, Cuba, quite succinctly on Friday: "Nobody should feel defensive or unhappy about the quality of treatment they've received," he told an audience in Cincinnati, proclaiming that the captives are cared for in a manner "consistent" with America's obligations under the Geneva Conventions.

The New York Times

Otherwise, your sibling may feel defensive, and you'll soon find the two of you bickering over this!

WikiHow

Try to let go of things that make you immediately feel defensive.

WikiHow

However, do not be argumentative or confrontational, as this will cause your friend to feel defensive and it will simply speed up the end of the friendship.

WikiHow

Just as well, because it's none of our business (and nothing for you to feel defensive about).

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "feel defensive of", ensure that the context clearly indicates what or whom you are protecting. This phrase is most effective when the object of your defensiveness is explicitly stated.

Common error

Avoid using "feel defensive of" when "feel defensive about" is more appropriate. "Feel defensive of" implies a sense of protectiveness, while "feel defensive about" suggests you're justifying your own actions or beliefs.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "feel defensive of" functions as a verb phrase followed by an adjective and a preposition, expressing a subjective emotional response of protectiveness or defensiveness towards someone or something. Ludwig's analysis indicates that while grammatically acceptable, the phrase is not very common.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "feel defensive of" expresses protectiveness towards a person or thing and is grammatically acceptable but not widely used. Ludwig's analysis of various sources indicates that the phrase appears mainly in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity about what you are defending. Alternatives like "feel protective of" might be more common. Despite being flagged by Ludwig AI as potentially awkward, the phrase remains a valid option in specific contexts where protectiveness is emphasized.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feel protective of

Emphasizes a sense of guarding and shielding someone or something.

feel the need to defend

Highlights the impulse or obligation to protect something.

feel compelled to justify

Focuses on explaining or rationalizing something to prevent criticism.

feel inclined to shield

Implies a leaning towards protecting someone from harm or scrutiny.

feel a responsibility to safeguard

Underscores a sense of duty to ensure the well-being or reputation of someone.

feel duty-bound to uphold

Highlights the importance of obligation to defend.

take a stand for

Focuses on publicly supporting or defending a cause or person.

rally in support of

Emphasizes gathering support to defend someone or something.

stand up for

This phrase is more active and it express defending somebody or something in a direct way.

champion the cause of

Suggests vigorously advocating for and defending a particular cause or person.

FAQs

What does it mean to "feel defensive of" something?

To "feel defensive of" something means to feel a need to protect or defend it from criticism or attack. It implies a sense of protectiveness or loyalty towards the subject in question.

Is it better to say "feel defensive of" or "feel defensive about"?

While both phrases are grammatically correct, "feel defensive about" is more commonly used to express defensiveness regarding one's own actions or beliefs. "Feel defensive of" suggests a protectiveness towards someone or something else. Consider the context to determine which phrase is more appropriate.

What are some alternatives to "feel defensive of"?

You can use alternatives like "feel protective of", "feel the need to defend", or "feel compelled to justify" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How can I use "feel defensive of" in a sentence?

You can use "feel defensive of" in a sentence like this: "I often "feel defensive of" my friend when others criticize her choices, because I know she always tries her best."