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be offensive

[bi ə-ˈfen-siv]
verb phrase
ser ofensivo
1. to cause displeasure, anger, or resentment by being disrespectful, insulting, or objectionable
His comments about her appearance were offensive.
Seus comentários sobre a aparência dela foram ofensivos.
2. to be disagreeable or unpleasant to the senses
The smell coming from the trash was offensive.
O cheiro saindo do lixo era ofensivo.
3. to be aggressive or used for attacking in a military context
The military launched an offensive strategy.
O exército lançou uma estratégia ofensiva.
NYC Slang
be out of line; be disrespectful
Synonyms
be insultingbe disrespectfulbe rudebe impoliteupsetdisplease
Antonyms
be respectfulbe politebe courteousbe agreeablebe pleasant

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
ser ofensivo
standard usage across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
ser ofensivo
standard usage
São Paulo
ser ofensivo
standard usage
Portugal
ser ofensivo
standard usage in European Portuguese

Related Idioms & Phrases

get under someone's skin
rub someone the wrong way
step on someone's toes
levar para o lado pessoal (take it personally)
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