Definition of assurancenext
1
2

Synonym Chooser

How is the word assurance distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of assurance are aplomb, confidence, and self-possession. While all these words mean "a state of mind or a manner marked by easy coolness and freedom from uncertainty, diffidence, or embarrassment," assurance carries a stronger implication of certainty and may suggest arrogance or lack of objectivity in assessing one's own powers.

handled the cross-examination with complete assurance

When can aplomb be used instead of assurance?

While the synonyms aplomb and assurance are close in meaning, aplomb implies a manifest self-possession in trying or challenging situations.

handled the reporters with great aplomb

When might confidence be a better fit than assurance?

The synonyms confidence and assurance are sometimes interchangeable, but confidence stresses faith in oneself and one's powers without any suggestion of conceit or arrogance.

the confidence that comes from long experience

When is self-possession a more appropriate choice than assurance?

The words self-possession and assurance can be used in similar contexts, but self-possession implies an ease or coolness under stress that reflects perfect self-control and command of one's powers.

answered the insolent question with complete self-possession

Example 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 assurance Soon after, the weapon used is traced back to Sverre Olsen (Arthur Hakalahti), a young arms dealer operating in a downtown warehouse populated by the city’s underworld and, according to the 70 percent assurance of face recognition expert Beate (Ellen Helinder), a familiar presence within the force. Jon O'Brien, IndieWire, 23 Mar. 2026 Rodrigo Olalquiaga, project manager for AECOM, which oversees district construction, responded that the engineer for Stratus had provided assurance that the site was safe. Scott Travis, Sun Sentinel, 22 Mar. 2026 Green said his chief of staff spoke to the White House and received assurances the islands would have federal support. Jennifer Sinco Kelleher, Chicago Tribune, 21 Mar. 2026 Trump made similar assurances before ordering the demolition of the East Wing of the White House. Alex Ross, New Yorker, 19 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for assurance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for assurance
Noun
  • That gives stations some certainty over their cost over the weekend.
    Jeff Wagner, CBS News, 31 Mar. 2026
  • While it can’t be said with complete certainty, current size estimates lean toward that description.
    Alex Derosier, Twin Cities, 30 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Protect playtime, and your confidence grows steadily.
    Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 31 Mar. 2026
  • New Yorkers deserve confidence in their government.
    CBS New York Team, CBS News, 31 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Beyer, who has a warm smile and bright-pink glasses, did not hide her satisfaction.
    Eyal Press, New Yorker, 30 Mar. 2026
  • Cities that ranked highest tended to perform well in areas such as emotional and physical well-being, job satisfaction and strong community ties.
    Kelly McGreal, FOXNews.com, 29 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • John is, as ever, at ease in front of the cameras, while Carolyn struggles to maintain composure.
    Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 27 Mar. 2026
  • When Kotb asked how Guthrie reacted to seeing images of the abductor taken from Ring camera footage, Guthrie worked hard to keep her composure.
    Kory Grow, Rolling Stone, 26 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • While the misdemeanor child molestation count was vacated because of the issue involving the girl’s testimony, the appellate panel said there was sufficient evidence to support the conviction and that Lopez could be retried on that count.
    Teri Figueroa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Mar. 2026
  • Following his 2018 conviction, Williams was sentenced to life without the possibility of parole.
    Colleen Cronin, Boston Herald, 31 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Her self-assurance has kept her armored against the backlash and backhanded compliments that have surfaced in some online discourse surrounding her music.
    Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 25 Mar. 2026
  • Stylist Sydnee Paige—whose credits include actress Kerry Washington, WNBA player Skylar Diggins, and comedian Ziwe—has been working with Fudd since last September and can already attest to her blooming self-assurance.
    Jordan Robinson, SELF, 19 Mar. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Assurance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/assurance. Accessed 4 Apr. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on assurance

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster