under attack

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Explanation of "Under Attack"

Definition: The phrase "under attack" means being targeted or criticized by someone or something. This can happen in a physical sense, like in a battle, or in a more figurative sense, like being criticized for a mistake.

Usage Instructions:

1. As an Adjective: "Under attack" is used to describe someone or something that is being attacked or criticized.
   • Example: "The city was under attack by the enemy forces."
   • Example: "The politician is under attack for his controversial statements."

Example Sentences:

• Physical Attack: "The soldiers felt they were under attack when the enemy started firing at them."
• Figurative Attack: "The company was under attack after news of their poor working conditions was made public."

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "under attack" can refer to any situation where a person or organization faces severe criticism or challenges, even if not physically attacked. - Example: "The scientist's research was under attack from other experts in the field who disagreed with her findings."

Word Variants:

• Attack (noun): The act of attacking someone or something.
  • Example: "The attack on the castle was unexpected."
• Attacker (noun): A person who attacks someone or something.
  • Example: "The attacker was caught by the police."

Different Meanings:

While "under attack" primarily refers to being targeted negatively, it can also be used in a broader sense: - Metaphorical Attack: It can refer to being overwhelmed by challenges or difficulties. - Example: "She felt under attack from her workload."

Synonyms:

• Assaulted
• Criticized
• Challenged
• Under fire

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• Under fire: This is a similar expression that means facing criticism or being attacked verbally.
  • Example: "The CEO was under fire for the company's recent layoffs."
• Take fire: This means to start receiving criticism or attacks.
  • Example: "After the announcement, the government took fire from the media."

Conclusion:

Understanding the phrase "under attack" can help you express situations where someone is facing criticism or is being targeted, whether in a literal or figurative way.

Academic

Adjective

1. subjected to enemy attack or censure
   • an official under fire for mismanagement

Synonyms

• under attack
• under fire