Synonyms for

Assaulting

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

Definition

To physically attack someone or something.

Synonyms & similar words

dishonour attack ravish violate outrage round dishonor assault lashout snipe assail seton rape attacking hitting striking beating punching thrashing battering bashing mauling pummeling flogging whipping clobbering slugging smacking clouting walloping biffing socking thumping

Synonyms by register

Formal

attacking aggression offense invasion

Informal

going after hitting beating up laying into

Literary

assailing onset onslaught

Antonyms

defending protecting resisting repelling withstanding shielding

Common collocations

  • verbal assault
  • sexual assault
  • physical assault
  • assault and battery
  • assault on freedom
  • assault on the senses
  • assault rifle

Word family

noun assault
verb assault
adjective assaultive

Usage note

Assault can refer to a physical attack or a strong verbal attack. In legal contexts, it often implies an attempted or threatened battery.

Example sentences

  1. The bully was caught assaulting another student on the playground.
  2. The army was assaulting the enemy's stronghold.
  3. The woman was charged with assaulting her neighbor with a bat.
  4. The boxer was known for assaulting his opponents in the ring.
  5. The police were called when a man was seen assaulting a woman in the park.

Quotes

  • I have never advocated war except as a means of peace.
  • The true soldier fights not because he hates what is in front of him, but because he loves what is behind him.
  • The first casualty of war is always the truth.

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