attacked

word · lemma: attack

/əˈtækt/
uh-TAKT
/ɐtˈækt/
uh-TAKT

Definition

Past form of 'attack'. It means to use violence against someone or something, or to strongly criticize or try to damage something.

Usage & Nuances

Often used for physical violence ('The dog attacked him'), but also for words and ideas ('The article attacked the policy'). In passive form, 'was attacked' is very common. Do not confuse it with 'hit'—'attack' usually suggests a stronger, more deliberate action.

Example Sentences

The dog attacked the man in the park.

basic

The town was attacked at night.

basic

Some students attacked his idea in class.

basic

He felt personally attacked by her comment.

natural

The senator was attacked in the media after the interview.

natural

When I said no, he attacked my decision right away.

natural