Offense

Offense is a term with several related meanings. In law, an offense is an act that violates a statute or regulation and may be punishable by penalties such as fines or imprisonment. It covers a range from minor infractions to serious crimes. The naming and penalties for offenses vary by jurisdiction.

In sports, offense refers to the team or tactics aimed at scoring. It contrasts with defense. Teams organize offense with positions or roles such as forwards or playmakers, depending on the sport. Offensive plays are designed to create scoring opportunities and follow sport-specific rules about ball handling, timing, and space.

In social use, offense denotes a feeling of insult caused by words or actions. 'To take offense' means reacting negatively to perceived slights. 'Offensive' describes content or conduct judged insulting or harmful. Sensitivity to offense varies by culture and context and is often addressed in guidelines.

In military usage, offense refers to actions aimed at seizing the initiative or capturing territory, contrasting with defense. Offensive operations may involve surprise, maneuver, and coordination across units, assessed by risks, objectives, and outcomes.

Across disciplines, offense broadly denotes an act that disrupts a status quo or expectation. It may be a legal violation, a sporting tactic, a social reaction to insult, or a military action.