offended

word · lemma: offend

/əˈfɛndəd/
uh-FEN-did
/əfˈɛndɪd/
uh-FEN-did

Definition

Feeling upset, hurt, or insulted because of something someone said or did. It is often used to describe an emotional reaction to rude, disrespectful, or inappropriate behavior.

Usage & Nuances

Often followed by 'by' or 'at': 'offended by the comment', 'offended at what he said'. 'Be offended' describes the feeling; 'offend' is the action. It can range from mildly upset to deeply insulted, depending on context.

Example Sentences

She felt offended by his joke.

basic

I was offended by that comment.

basic

He looked offended when they laughed.

basic

Don't get offended — I was only trying to help.

natural

She gets offended really easily.

natural

No one was offended, but the room got very quiet.

natural