defensive posture
[dɪˈfɛnsɪv ˈpɒstʃər]
nounpl: defensive postures
postura defensiva
1. A physical or mental position adopted to protect oneself from attack, criticism, or harm
When confronted about his mistakes, he immediately took a defensive posture.
Quando confrontado sobre seus erros, ele imediatamente assumiu uma postura defensiva.
2. In military or combat contexts, a tactical arrangement designed to resist attack
The troops adopted a defensive posture along the border.
As tropas adotaram uma postura defensiva ao longo da fronteira.
3. In psychology or social contexts, a behavioral stance that indicates reluctance to engage or vulnerability to criticism
Her defensive posture suggested she was not open to feedback.
Sua postura defensiva sugeriu que ela não estava aberta a críticas.
In both American and Brazilian contexts, this phrase is commonly used in interpersonal communication, psychology, and organizational settings. It describes both literal physical stances (particularly in combat sports and military contexts) and metaphorical emotional/psychological states. In Brazil, discussions about defensive postures often relate to social interactions and hierarchies, while in the US, it's frequently used in corporate and conflict resolution contexts.
NYC Slang
putting up your dukes; getting defensive; armor up
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