self-assertive

adjective

self-as·​ser·​tive ˌself-ə-ˈsər-tiv How to pronounce self-assertive (audio)
: given to or characterized by self-assertion
self-assertively adverb
self-assertiveness noun
Choose the Right Synonym for self-assertive

aggressive, militant, assertive, self-assertive mean obtrusively energetic especially in pursuing particular goals.

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

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

assertive suggests bold self-confidence in expression of opinion.

the more assertive speakers dominated the forum

self-assertive connotes forwardness or brash self-confidence.

a self-assertive young upstart

Examples of self-assertive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The only really odious members of the party will, of course, be those termed the Young, who are almost certain to prove fast, rude, and self-assertive. Nancy Mitford, Vogue, 24 Dec. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'self-assertive.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1849, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-assertive was in 1849

Dictionary Entries Near self-assertive

Cite this Entry

“Self-assertive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-assertive. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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