Nondefensive
What it means
Open to feedback without reacting with hostility or denial.
Reach for it when praising an open response to feedback without denial or counterattack
His nondefensive response turned criticism into a useful discussion.
Words to choose between 6
| everyday | |
|---|---|
| warm | |
| professional |
|
| formal | |
| literary |
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everyday
Fits when willingness to hear another view is central
Careful Open is broad and can become vague praise.
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warm
Fits when questions replace immediate rebuttal
Careful Curiosity can coexist with later defensiveness.
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professional
Fits when ownership of one's part matters
Careful Accountability is stronger than a calm response.
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professional
Fits when feedback is heard and considered
Careful Receptive does not guarantee responsibility or change.
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formal
unthreatened
Fits when the person does not perceive challenge as attack
Careful Inner threat cannot be inferred confidently from behavior.
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literary
Fits when emotional composure under criticism leads
Careful Unruffled can mask refusal to engage.
Opposites 3
- defensive
- hostile
- denying
Common phrases 3
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nondefensive response
Her nondefensive response invited a more precise critique.
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remain nondefensive
He worked to remain nondefensive while the incident was reviewed.
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nondefensive listening
Nondefensive listening revealed a gap in the handover process.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Updated