counterthrusts

Retaliatory offensive moves

Counterthrusts are thrusting movements made in response to an opponent's attack, especially in fencing or military combat.

The term extends to any forceful response that pushes back against pressure: The administration's counterthrusts against criticism proved ineffective.

Each counterthrust aims to neutralize or reverse an adversary's momentum.

retaliation

counterstrike

Retaliatory military action

reprisalPunitive action in return
retributionPunishment for wrongdoing
paybackRetaliation for wrongs

vengeance · backlash · response · countermove · counteraction · tit-for-tat · comeuppance · rejoinder · retort · reciprocation

fencing

riposte

Swift clever reply

lungeSudden forward movement
parryDefensive blade deflection
foilDefeat a plan

epee · sabre · engagement · bout · feint · disengage · redouble · fleche · touché · piste

debate

rebuttal

Formal response disputing claims

rejoinderReply to a reply
retortQuick, cutting reply
counterargumentPoint challenging another's position

refutation · comeback · riposte · response · objection · contradiction · challenge · disputation · counterpoint · counterclaim

military

flanking

At the sides of

encirclementSurrounding enemy forces completely
pincerGrasping claw organ
ambushSurprise strike from concealment

feint · counteroffensive · counterassault · sortie · sally · countercharge · repulse · engagement · skirmish · counterfire

Opposites

combat sequence/initiative

counterthruststhrusts

Forceful forward pushes

preemptive strikes · advances · charges · lunges · onslaughts

defensive vs. offensive posture

counterthrustswithdrawals

Removal of deposited funds

retreats · surrenders · capitulations · yielding · evasions

Family

thrust, counter, counters, counteract, thrusting, counterattack, thrusts, counterblow, outthrust

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