Antonyms of adj on_the_offensive

1 sense of on the offensive

Sense 1
on the offensive (predicate) -- (actively attacking)

INDIRECT (VIA offensive) -> defensive -- (intended or appropriate for defending against or deterring aggression or attack; "defensive weapons"; "a defensive stance")

Similarity of adj on_the_offensive

1 sense of on the offensive

Sense 1
on the offensive (predicate) -- (actively attacking)
       => offensive (vs. defensive) -- (for the purpose of attack rather than defense; "offensive weapons")