Synonyms for

Assault

Verb / ʌˈsɔ:lt / Another word for assault — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Assault means to physically attack or harm someone.

Synonyms & similar words

ravish dishonor dishonour lashout assail snipe assault violate attack violation seton ravishment rape outrage round attack battery strike hit offense onslaught raid incursion invasion encounter ambush charge rush onslaught sally outbreak onslaught offensive assail beset

Synonyms by register

Formal

attack aggression onslaught offensive

Informal

mugging beatdown jump roughing up

Literary

charge onset incursion

Antonyms

defense protection retreat withdrawal resistance repel ward off

Common collocations

  • sexual assault
  • armed assault
  • violent assault
  • attempted assault
  • assault and battery
  • assault rifle
  • assault course
  • physical assault

Word family

noun assault
verb assault
adjective assaultive

Usage note

While 'assault' can refer to a physical attack, it is also commonly used in legal contexts, particularly for sexual assault. Be mindful of the specific context to avoid misinterpretation.

Example sentences

  1. The police officer was assaulted while on duty.
  2. The victim was badly hurt in the assault.
  3. She was charged with assaulting her neighbor.
  4. The suspect was found guilty of assault.
  5. The assault on the castle was unsuccessful.

Quotes

  • Assault is a crime, and every crime is a sin. - Ehab Atalla
  • In assault on freedom of speech, political correctness has become a tool of the radical left. - Tom Tancredo
  • The assault on the human body is truly a global phenomenon and represents one of the greatest challenges to public health. - Margaret Chan

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