Synonyms for

Attacking

Verb / ʌˈtækɪŋ / Another word for attacking — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To aggressively and violently go after or harm someone or something.

Synonyms & similar words

lashout aggress assail snipe assault attack seton assaultive defend round assaulting striking ambushing charging raiding invading storming assailing besieging confronting encountering offending onslaught rushing trouncing violating

Synonyms by register

Formal

assaulting assailing invading aggression

Informal

going after hitting pouncing on coming at

Literary

assault onset onslaught

Antonyms

defending resisting protecting countering repelling withstanding holding

Common collocations

  • attacking the enemy
  • attacking the problem
  • attacking the market
  • attacking the defense
  • attacking the system
  • attacking the opponent
  • attacking the village

Word family

noun attack
verb attack
adjective attacking
adverb attackingly

Usage note

The word 'attacking' can refer to physical aggression or a strong, forceful approach to a task or problem. It generally carries a negative connotation of hostility or aggression.

Example sentences

  1. The army was attacking the enemy's fortress.
  2. The dog was attacking the mailman.
  3. The bully was attacking the younger kids on the playground.
  4. The virus was attacking the body's immune system.
  5. The hackers were attacking the company's database.

Quotes

  • No one defends the wrong, but attacking the individual is not the answer.
  • I don't believe in attacking people personally.
  • The key is to attack them with the least amount of force necessary, to avoid hurting them unnecessarily.

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