Spanish Conversation · Level 178
15 words
Spanish word
defensivo
Pronunciation
IPA/defenˈsiβo/
Meaning
- adjectivedefensive
Example
No te pongas defensivo, solo pregunto.
Don't get defensive, I'm just asking.
More examples
Cuando hablas así, pareces defensivo.
When you speak like that, you sound defensive.
Core concept
Person putting a hand up to block a comment.
Common phrases
ponerse defensivo
get defensive
estar a la defensiva
be on the defensive
reacción defensiva
defensive reaction
Similar words
receloso: Views others with mistrust, staying alert for ulterior motives.
prudente: Exercises prudence by avoiding unnecessary risks and thinking ahead.
reservado: Preserves emotional privacy, avoiding visible displays of feeling.
Definition in Spanish
Que indica una actitud cautelosa y orientada a protegerse de críticas, riesgos o pérdidas en vez de buscar la confrontación.
Word origin
Derived from Latin defendere via Spanish defender and the suffix -ivo to form an adjective for behavior aimed at avoiding attack or criticism.
Usage tips
- In conversation, phrases like 'parece que estás a la defensiva' describe a defensive stance without directly blaming the person.