Synonyms of initiative

initiative

noun

i-ˈni-shə-tiv 

as in ambition

readiness to engage in daring or difficult activity

the sentry showed remarkable initiative and uncommon bravery in foiling the terrorist attack

Synonyms & Similar Words

• ambition
• action
• enterprise
• drive
• spirit
• aggressiveness
• vigor
• hustle
• energy
• go
• gumption
• grit
• spunk
• assertiveness
• killer instinct
• starch
• pluck
• self-reliance
• vitality
• ambitiousness
• pep
• hardihood
• overambitiousness
• snap

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• inertia
• passivity
• reluctance
• inactivity
• hesitation
• timidity
• diffidence
• lethargy
• laziness
• indolence
• faintheartedness

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of initiative

Beyond business, Cosmoprof Asia will reinforce its commitment to social impact through Boutique, its charity initiative supporting Her Fund. — Advertorial, Footwear News, 29 Sep. 2026

Over the past two months, Republican lawmakers have suffered major defeats on some of their most high-profile policy initiatives. — Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 29 Sep. 2026

Hope Florida is first lady Casey DeSantis’ initiative to move people away from government assistance and toward religious and other groups for help. — Jim Defede, Miami Herald, 29 Sep. 2026

The festival will also showcase its Composer Filmmaker Accelerator, an initiative connecting emerging composers with filmmakers through mentorship and hands-on collaboration. — Katherine Brodsky, Variety, 28 Sep. 2026

Phrases Containing initiative

• on one's own initiative