Offense means different things depending on the situation:

1. Breaking a rule or law. When someone commits an offense, they've done something wrong, whether it's a minor infraction like talking in class or a serious crime. A first offense means it's the first time someone has broken a particular rule. Traffic offenses include speeding or running a red light. The more serious the offense, the more serious the consequences.
2. The attacking part of a team in sports. In football, basketball, and soccer, the offense tries to score while the other team plays defense to stop them. A team might have a “strong offense” if they're good at scoring points. Players on offense focus on moving the ball forward and creating scoring opportunities.
3. A feeling of being hurt or insulted. When someone takes offense at a comment, their feelings are hurt by what was said. You might accidentally give offense by saying something that sounds ruder than you meant it. The adjective offensive describes things that are insulting or hurtful, so it's worth choosing words carefully.