Word
assault
Meanings
a physical attack or an attempt to attack someone
an aggressive attack on a place or position, especially by armed forces
to attack someone physically
Definition
An assault is a physical attack or a violent attempt to harm someone.
An assault is an act of attacking someone physically, or trying to do so. It can also refer more generally to an aggressive attack on a place or position, especially in military contexts. In everyday English, it is often used to describe violent incidents and is a serious, formal word.
Examples
- The witness described the assault in a calm, detailed statement to the investigators.
- She reported the assault immediately, determined not to let fear shape her routine.
- They were shaken after the assault and asked their neighbors to walk home together for a while.
- I couldn’t stop thinking about the assault, especially how quickly the situation escalated.
- The documentary examines how communities respond after an assault and what support looks like in practice.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes use assault for any insult or criticism, but it usually refers to physical violence or a violent attack, not just harsh words.
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