offending

Everyday

1. Offending means upsetting someone or making them feel hurt or insulted. tree →
2. The offending thing is the one that causes a problem or breaks a rule. tree →
3. Offending can mean breaking the law. tree →

In the lessons

In stories and everyday life, "the offending sock" or "the offending tooth" is the one causing trouble, often said with humour. In manners lessons, pupils learn to avoid offending people with rude words. In law, a person who breaks the law is an offender.

Examples

• I'm sorry, I didn't mean to offend you. tree →
• The dentist removed the offending tooth. tree →
• Mum threw away the offending sock that smelled. tree →
• Try to avoid offending people with jokes about them. tree →
• The referee sent off the offending player. tree →
• The offending email was deleted. tree →

Note

Verb is regular. Noun: offence (British) or offense (American); offender. Adjective: offensive. "Offending" as an adjective is often a bit humorous.