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defensive unit

[dɪˈfɛnsɪv ˈjunɪt]
nounpl: defensive units
unidade defensiva
1. A group of players or soldiers organized to defend against attack or opposing forces
The defensive unit played exceptionally well in the second half.
A unidade defensiva jogou excepcionalmente bem no segundo tempo.
2. In military contexts, a tactical formation responsible for protecting a position or area
The defensive unit held the fortification against repeated assaults.
A unidade defensiva manteve a fortificação contra ataques repetidos.
3. In sports, the players on a team whose primary role is to prevent the opposing team from scoring
The team's defensive unit needs to improve their coverage.
A unidade defensiva do time precisa melhorar sua cobertura.
Synonyms
defensedefensive linedefensive squadback line
Antonyms
offensive unitattacking unit

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
unidade defensiva
Standard usage in sports and military contexts
Portugal
unidade defensiva
Standard usage, same as Brazilian Portuguese
São Paulo
defesa
Common informal shortened version in sports commentary
Rio de Janeiro
retaguarda
Used colloquially in football/soccer contexts

Related Idioms & Phrases

stand one's ground
hold the line
defend the fort
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