Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

personal-attack

noun
ˈpɜːrsənl əˈtæk
Definition
A verbal or written assault that targets an individual rather than addressing the subject at hand.
Examples
  • During the debate, he resorted to a personal attack instead of discussing the policy issues.
  • Her comment was more of a personal attack than constructive criticism.
Meaning
A personal attack is an argument aimed at a person’s character or qualifications rather than their ideas or arguments.
Synonyms
  • Ad hominem
  • Character assassination
  • Insult