1.
defensive line; line of defense
A line or position established for defense against attack. Used literally in military contexts and figuratively for any last stand or boundary one tries to protect.
防衛線を築く。
To build a defensive line.
最後の防衛線が突破された。
The last line of defense was breached.
価格競争で利益の防衛線を守るのが難しくなっている。
It has become difficult to hold the line on profit margins amid price competition.
A compound of 防衛 (defense) and 線 (line). Used both literally for military defense positions and figuratively for any boundary or standard one tries to maintain.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 防衛線を張る: to set up a defensive line
- 防衛線を突破する: to break through a defensive line
- 防衛線を守る: to hold a defensive line
- 最終防衛線: last line of defense
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 防御ライン: defense line — uses the loanword ライン
- 前線: front line — the forward-most position, not necessarily defensive