Synonyms for

Offence

Noun / ˈʌˈvfens / Another word for offence — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a violation or breaking of a law, rule, or moral principle

Synonyms & similar words

offense defence discourtesy offensive umbrage defense crime violation transgression misdemeanor crime sin wrongdoing breach infringement trespass misconduct impropriety indiscretion infraction wrong fault error slip blunder oversight mistake

Synonyms by register

Formal

infringement violation transgression breach

Informal

bummer drag nuisance annoyance

Literary

trespass wrongdoing

Antonyms

approval compliment praise pleasure satisfaction delight

Common collocations

  • commit an offence
  • minor offence
  • serious offence
  • take offence
  • give offence
  • cause offence
  • offence is the best defence

Word family

noun offence
verb offend
adjective offensive
adverb offensively

Usage note

In American English, 'offense' is the standard spelling. 'Offence' is primarily used in British English and other Commonwealth countries. It can refer to a crime or a feeling of being insulted.

Compare "offence" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. The police officer charged the thief with offence.
  2. Cheating is an offence in school.
  3. Using someone else's work without giving credit is an offence.
  4. He was given a warning for his offence.
  5. The company had to pay a fine for their offence.

Quotes

  • The first offence deserves the greatest punishment, the second the least severe, the third the greatest again. - Marcus Tullius Cicero
  • The only offence that can be given by hypocrisy is that it claims excellence. - George Bernard Shaw
  • The best defence against the atom bomb is not to be there when it goes off. - Unknown

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words