counterassault

Answering offensive action

A counterassault is an attack launched in response to an enemy's assault—a defensive measure that becomes offensive.

Military and law enforcement contexts use it most: The counterassault team moved in after shots were fired.

The verb form means to launch such an attack: They counterassaulted before the enemy could regroup.

retaliation

reprisal

Punitive action in return

counterstrikeRetaliatory military action
counterblowRetaliatory strike
riposteSwift clever reply

counteraction · countermove · reciprocation · vengeance · retribution · payback · return fire · counterpunch · counteroffensive · retaliation

military

offensive

Causing displeasure or attack-oriented

flankingAt the sides of
ambushSurprise strike from concealment
firefightExchange of gunfire

engagement · incursion · raid · strike · battalion · infantry · artillery · reinforcements · skirmish · platoon

strategic

preemption

Acting to prevent another's action

feintDeceptive mock attack
infiltrationCovert entry into organization
encirclementSurrounding enemy forces completely

sabotage · blitzkrieg · siege · diversionary · pincer · flanking maneuver · timing · surprise · initiative · exploitation

defensive

fortification

Strengthening defenses or nutrients

barricadeObstacle blocking a path
shieldHandheld defensive armor
guardWatchful defensive attention

bunker · entrenchment · redoubt · bulwark · palisade · parapet · stronghold · bastion · cover · perimeter

Opposites

temporal/causal sequence

counterassaultfirst strike

Initiating combat unprovoked

unprovoked attack · preemptive strike · offensive · aggression · incursion

tactical posture

counterassaultretreat

Sanctuary or withdrawal

withdrawal · surrender · capitulation · defense · defensive position

Family

counterassaults

Familiarity: Top 500,000
Profile: Used worldwide · Timeless · Negative · Rated PG