ASSERTIVE Synonyms: 152 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the adjective 'assertive' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of assertive are aggressive , militant , and self-assertive . While all these words mean "obtrusively energetic especially in pursuing particular goals," assertive suggests bold self-confidence in expression of opinion. // the more assertive speakers dominated the forum

Q: When is it sensible to use 'aggressive' instead of 'assertive'?

While the synonyms aggressive and assertive are close in meaning, aggressive implies a disposition to dominate often in disregard of others' rights or in determined and energetic pursuit of one's ends. // aggressive in his business dealings

Q: When is 'militant' a more appropriate choice than 'assertive'?

The meanings of militant and assertive largely overlap; however, militant also implies a fighting disposition but suggests not self-seeking but devotion to a cause, movement, or principle. // militant protesters rallied against the new law

Q: In what contexts can 'self-assertive' take the place of 'assertive'?

While in some cases nearly identical to assertive , self-assertive connotes forwardness or brash self-confidence. // a self-assertive young upstart

assertive

adjective

ə-ˈsər-tiv

Definition of assertive next

as in aggressive

having or showing a bold forcefulness in the pursuit of a goal some reef fish are assertive in defending their territory

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in emphatic

marked by or uttered with forcefulness after months of assertive declarations that he would not run for president, he announced he was running

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective assertive contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of assertive are aggressive, militant, and self-assertive. While all these words mean "obtrusively energetic especially in pursuing particular goals," assertive suggests bold self-confidence in expression of opinion.

the more assertive speakers dominated the forum

When is it sensible to use aggressive instead of assertive?

While the synonyms aggressive and assertive are close in meaning, aggressive implies a disposition to dominate often in disregard of others' rights or in determined and energetic pursuit of one's ends.

aggressive in his business dealings

When is militant a more appropriate choice than assertive?

The meanings of militant and assertive largely overlap; however, militant also implies a fighting disposition but suggests not self-seeking but devotion to a cause, movement, or principle.

militant protesters rallied against the new law

In what contexts can self-assertive take the place of assertive?

While in some cases nearly identical to assertive, self-assertive connotes forwardness or brash self-confidence.

a self-assertive young upstart

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of assertive In on the Current Couples' 'Red Flags' Camille and Thomas Thomas attempted to impress Camille with salsa dancing, showing a more assertive side. —

Miguel Santiago, People.com, 27 Nov. 2024 If actions during the first Trump presidency are any indicator, the incoming administration will be more assertive in tackling the issue. —

Doug Criscitello, Forbes, 20 Nov. 2024 Beijing’s shift toward a more expansive and assertive form of mercantilist techno-nationalism poses genuine risks to the prosperity and economic security of the United States and others. —

Scott Kennedy, Foreign Affairs, 26 Nov. 2024 Against Utah, Lindholm was far more active and assertive in the bumper. —

Fluto Shinzawa, The Athletic, 21 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for assertive

Recent Examples of Synonyms for assertive

Adjective

Kristin talks with peers, peers’ parents, and every staff member, explaining how the dog is trained, how to behave around it, and soothing any worries regarding potential aggressive actions.

Ethan Stone, USA TODAY, 13 Dec. 2024
Atlanta’s aggressive defense disrupted the Knicks’ rhythm early and often.

Kristian Winfield, New York Daily News, 12 Dec. 2024