Synonyms for offense

noun

1. A misdeed

   misdemeanor, malfeasance, transgression; see crime 1, 2, sin.

2. An attack

   assault, aggression, battery; see attack 1.

   Styles of offense in football include: running attack*, shotgun offense*, T-formation*, wishbone*, passing attack*, straight football*, power plays*, cross-bucks and spinners*, flying wedge*, razzle-dazzle*, the aerial route*, the bust-em philosophy*.

3. Styles of offense in basketball include: five-man attack*, four-man offense*, center fan*, cartwheel*, slow-breaking attack*, fast-breaking attack*.

4. Resentment

   umbrage, resentment, pique, indignation, displeasure, hurt, huff, disgust, high dudgeon; see also anger, resentment.

offense, in this connection, implies displeased or hurt feelings as the result of a slight, insult, etc. don't take offense at my criticism; resentment adds implications of indignation, a brooding over an injury, and ill will toward the offender a resentment cherished for days; umbrage implies offense or resentment at being slighted or having one's pride hurt he took umbrage at the tone of her letter; pique suggests a passing feeling of ruffled pride, usually over a trifle; displeasure may describe a feeling varying from dissatisfaction or disapproval to anger and indignation