under an attack

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "under an attack" is not correct in standard English; it should be "under attack." You can use it to describe a situation where someone or something is being targeted or assaulted, often in a metaphorical sense.
Example: "The company found itself under attack from critics after the controversial decision was made public."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

We have to understand when they're under an attack".

The Guardian

The South Korean government remains leery that its military could command its own troops under an attack from North Korea.

The New York Times

But Kim knotted the bout, then ducked under an attack by Bayer and countered with the final touch.

The New York Times - Sports

She listened on the radio as his convoy came under an attack that continued after she was out of range.

The New York Times

Earlier, Reuters quoted an unidentified source in President Ahmadinejad's office as confirming that the Iranian president's motorcade had come under an attack on Wednesday but that he had escaped unharmed.

The New York Times

These included "Power," a paean to the Tennessee Valley Authority; "Injunction Granted," about labor's struggle in the courts; and "Triple-A Plowed Under," an attack on the Supreme Court's ruling against the Agricultural Adjustment Administration.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Was the UK under an armed attack?

The Guardian - Opinion

He remained cool Thursday under a sustained attack.

The New York Times

It never again came under a sustained attack.

The New York Times

Deputy Chief Charles H. Smith said his officers came under a withering attack.

The New York Times

41 Rc7+ Kg7 42 Rc7 Be8 43 Rf3 Qg5 44 Qc3 Material down and under a ferocious attack Svidler surrendered.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using the grammatically correct and more common phrase "under attack" to enhance clarity and avoid potential criticism. While "under an attack" appears in some contexts, standard English favors the shorter form.

Common error

Avoid using the indefinite article "an" before "attack" in this context. The standard phrasing is simply "under attack", which is more concise and grammatically sound.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under an attack" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate a state of being subjected to aggression or hostility. However, according to Ludwig AI, standard usage favors the omission of the article "an", suggesting that "under attack" is the grammatically preferred form.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

18%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "under an attack" does appear in various sources, standard English grammar favors "under attack". Ludwig AI highlights this grammatical preference, and the examples showcase its use across contexts like news, science, and general knowledge. When writing, it's generally best to omit the "an" for clarity and correctness. Alternative phrases like "under siege" or "being targeted" can provide similar meanings with slightly different nuances. Thus, while "under an attack" isn't entirely incorrect, its more appropriate to use it carefuly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under siege

This alternative conveys a sense of being surrounded and intensely pressured, often implying a prolonged and difficult situation.

under fire

Similar to the original, but emphasizes active aggression and criticism, often in a literal or figurative combat scenario.

being targeted

This phrase highlights the deliberate act of being chosen as a recipient of negative actions, whether physical or metaphorical.

vulnerable to attack

This emphasizes the susceptibility and lack of defense against potential threats.

at risk of assault

Focuses on the potential for physical harm or aggressive confrontation.

exposed to danger

Highlights the lack of protection and the presence of potential harm.

subject to aggression

This phrase points to the experience of being on the receiving end of hostile actions.

in a defensive position

Shifts the focus to the reactive stance taken in response to a threat.

facing opposition

This alternative describes the state of contending with resistance or disagreement.

battling adversity

Emphasizes the struggle against unfavorable circumstances or challenges.

FAQs

Is it grammatically correct to say "under an attack"?

Standard English usage prefers "under attack". While "under an attack" may appear in some contexts, it's generally considered grammatically incorrect.

What does it mean to be "under attack"?

To be "under attack" means to be the target of aggression, whether physical, verbal, or metaphorical. It implies a state of being targeted or assaulted.

Which is more common, "under attack" or "under an attack"?

"Under attack" is significantly more common and grammatically preferred. The inclusion of "an" is typically unnecessary and considered non-standard.

What are some alternative phrases to "under an attack"?

Alternatives include "under siege", "under fire", or "being targeted", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.