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attack

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /əˈtæk/

KK: /əˈtæk/

adjective
Definition

Relating to a military operation aimed at causing harm or damage to an enemy.


Example

The soldiers used attack helicopters to support their mission.


Comparatives & Superlatives

Comparative: more aggressive

Superlative: most aggressive


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see that new documentary about attack strategies in military history?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was fascinating to see how they planned everything out.
Sloth A
I found the attack patterns really interesting, especially the historical ones.
Sloth B
Definitely! It makes you appreciate the complexity of warfare.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
offensive
assaultive
aggressive
Antonyms
defensive
protective
peaceful
intransitive verb
Definition

To make a sudden or violent effort to harm someone or something.


Example

The enemy attacked during the night.


Tense Forms

Past: attacked

Past Participle: attacked


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about the game last night?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was crazy! They really attacked in the second half.
Sloth A
I know, right? It was like they found a whole new energy.
Sloth B
noun
Definition

An act of trying to harm someone or something, or a strong criticism or comment against someone or something.


Example

The sudden attack on the city surprised everyone.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about the recent attack on the local store?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was all over the news!
Sloth A
I can't believe how often these things happen now; it's kind of scary.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To use force or violence against someone or something, or to criticize someone strongly.


Example

The soldiers planned to attack the enemy base at dawn.


Tense Forms

Past: attacked

Past Participle: attacked


Conversation
Sloth A
I heard that the new virus can attack the immune system pretty hard.
Sloth B
Yeah, it sounds really concerning. We should take precautions.
Sloth A
Definitely! I think we should attack this by boosting our health.
Root Explanation

Attack → It originates from the Old French 'ataquer' (meaning to assault or to attack), which itself comes from the Vulgar Latin 'attaccare' (meaning to touch or to strike). The word 'attack' means to strike or assault someone or something.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old French word 'ataquer' meaning to assault — this helps you remember that 'attack' means to strike or assault.

Visually Confused Words
reattack
battak
tack
proattack
peatstack
Is this page helpful?
Exactly! I was on the edge of my seat the whole time.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
assault
strike
charge
Antonyms
defend
retreat
yield
It really is, we need to stay alert and be careful.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
assault
offensive
strike
Antonyms
defense
protection
retreat
Sloth B
Good idea! Let's start eating healthier and exercising more.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
assail
assault
strike
Antonyms
defend
protect
shield