They are primarily defensive, but at more advanced levels can be interpreted as attacks.

Military investments, if conducted, were primarily defensive in nature.

Although he played primarily defensive end in college, he was once again considered undersized to fill that role in the pro game; the 49ers wanted to make him a linebacker.

Although the duties of defensive midfielders are primarily defensive, some midfielders are deployed as deep-lying playmakers, due to their ability to dictate tempo from a deep position with their passing.