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attack · verb /əˈtæk/Full view
Nouns: attack, attacker, counter-attack
Verbs: attack, counter-attack
attack (TRY TO HURT)
B1 I or T to try to hurt or defeat using violence
Dictionary examples:

He was attacked and seriously injured by a gang of youths.

Most wild animals won't attack unless they are provoked.

Learner example:

At least he didn't attack me, and he even lent me his cell phone, he was such a gentle criminal. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Spanish)

attack (CRITICIZE)
C1 T to strongly criticize someone or something
Dictionary example:

She attacked the government's new education policy.

Learner example:

I hope he was indeed misinformed, because attacking a charity organization like this on purpose, is truly an act of a cruel man. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Dutch)

attack (DISEASE)
C2 T If a disease, chemical, etc. attacks someone or something, it damages them.
Dictionary example:

The virus attacks the central nervous system.

Learner example:

There is a myriad of diseases that attack the less protected. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Portuguese)

attack · noun C or U /əˈtæk/
Nouns: attack, attacker, counter-attack
Verbs: attack, counter-attack
attack
B1 a violent act intended to hurt or damage someone or something
Dictionary examples:

a racist attack

a terrorist attack on the capital

The town was once again under attack.

Learner example:

I have planned to see "The attack of the super mutant aliens". (Preliminary English Test; B1; Spanish)

attack (CRITICISM)
C2 when you say something to strongly criticize someone or something
Dictionary example:

a scathing attack on the president

Learner example:

Young people often insist on doing everything on their own and consider advice almost an attack on their personal opinion. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; German)

attack (SPORT)
B1 in games such as football, the part of a team which tries to score points
Dictionary example:

The team has a strong attack, but the defence is weak.

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