Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective cocksure contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of cocksure are certain, positive, and sure. While all these words mean "having no doubt or uncertainty," cocksure implies presumptuous or careless positiveness.

you're always so cocksure about everything

Where would certain be a reasonable alternative to cocksure?

While in some cases nearly identical to cocksure, certain may apply to a basing of a conclusion or conviction on definite grounds or indubitable evidence.

police are certain about the cause of the fire

When can positive be used instead of cocksure?

The words positive and cocksure are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, positive intensifies sureness or certainty and may imply opinionated conviction or forceful expression of it.

I'm positive that's the person I saw

When is sure a more appropriate choice than cocksure?

The meanings of sure and cocksure largely overlap; however, sure usually stresses the subjective or intuitive feeling of assurance.

felt sure that I had forgotten something

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 cocksure Amid the cocksure bravado of the adventure-sports world, fluidity is read as weakness. Alison Van Houten, Outside Online, 22 Aug. 2020 So cocksure are they, even their hair seems to swagger. San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 May 2022 Craig Kilborn, the fratty cocksure original host of The Daily Show, had gotten his big call-up from CBS to host the late-night slot following David Letterman’s, which was one of two jobs Stewart didn’t get. Devin Gordon, The Atlantic, 21 Apr. 2022 After the evacuation, the four Brits were skewered as irresponsible and cocksure by Icelanders and media outlets around the world. Devon O’Neil, Outside Online, 20 Apr. 2016 See All Example Sentences for cocksure
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cocksure
Adjective
  • Isa Briones, who plays the cocky intern Dr. Trinity Santos, remembers Wyle’s note as a kind of challenge.
    Adam B. Vary, Variety, 9 Apr. 2025
  • Reprising the role of the cocky Naval aviator required the bravery of a real fighter pilot.
    Tony Maglio, HollywoodReporter, 2 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Investors are confident that such bold approaches will pay off, and the companies on the Technology list have collectively raised more than $300 million in recent years.
    Thomas Brewster, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025
  • On the plus side, Luong is confident in keeping steady prices because Ampersand has other cost advantages.
    Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Word to the wise: the end credits are more like a Marvel movie as they are interrupted by a longish extra scene that includes a special cast member, blues legend Buddy Guy, plus yet another musical number at the end of credits.
    Pete Hammond, Deadline, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Consulting with a financial advisor experienced in bear markets may also be wise.
    Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The sweat, sure, but also just the indignity of it.
    Jack Lang, New York Times, 19 Apr. 2025
  • No one knows for sure who holds the record for the longest pond skim in the world, without an international skim-off.
    Anna Fiorentino, Smithsonian Magazine, 18 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • One chord appears to speak to the other, sounding almost impudent in their simplicity, equal parts ecstatic and heartbreakingly melancholic.
    Sam Davies, Rolling Stone, 10 Mar. 2025
  • In short, Moscow sees Montenegro as both strategically valuable and an impudent upstart that has thumbed its nose at the Russian bear while genuflecting before NATO and Washington.
    Edward P. Joseph, Foreign Affairs, 22 Dec. 2016
Adjective
  • Parthenope is inscrutable yet expressive, insolent yet heroic, magnetic yet unattainable, loving yet selfish.
    Mike Miller, EW.com, 12 Feb. 2025
  • The officers weren't rude, angry, or insolent — as required of a battery conviction — and used their training and legal authority to do their jobs.
    Ryan Murphy, The Indianapolis Star, 2 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • Again, an astute grader would undoubtedly catch your brazen attempt and ding you points accordingly.
    Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025
  • The boisterous comedian lights up the stage with sly wit and brazen confidence, conveying Moss’ righteous fury over being bottom of the office food chain.
    Patrick Ryan, USA Today, 1 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • On paper, this might sound like a bold step toward addressing the climate crisis.
    George Peppas, Oc Register, 7 Apr. 2025
  • Sticking with the same formula is a bold move for Nintendo, which rarely does the same thing twice.
    Lisa Eadicicco, CNN Money, 7 Apr. 2025

Cite this Entry

“Cocksure.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cocksure. Accessed 21 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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