English Profile

attack · verb

/əˈtæk/Full view

Word family

Nouns: attack, attacker, counterattack

Verbs: attack, counterattack

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:

His behaviour was noticed, but the media could not attack such a successful negotiat[o]r. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Turkish)

attack (DISEASE)

C2 T If a disease, chemical, etc., attacks someone or something, it damages it.

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/

Word family

Nouns: attack, attacker, counterattack

Verbs: attack, counterattack

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)