self-assertion

noun

self-as·​ser·​tion ˌself-ə-ˈsər-shən 

1

: the act of asserting oneself or one's own rights, claims, or opinions

2

: the act of asserting one's superiority over others

Examples of self-assertion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The song’s use of the native language is part of a longer tradition in Taiwan of dissent and self-assertion. —Literary Hub, 15 Oct. 2025

Saturn has been transiting the first few degrees of Aries since May 24, bringing fresh momentum to themes surrounding our identity, autonomy and self-assertion. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 1 Sep. 2025

Then, as Venus moves into Pisces, the focus shifts from self-assertion to a deeper, more transcendent love. —Colin Bedell, Them, 14 Jan. 2025

This self-assertion can also subtly influence how your manager perceives you. —Mark Murphy, Forbes, 26 Nov. 2024

As the story proceeds, the narrator dredges up more secrets, more cries for help that double as acts of self-assertion. —Katy Waldman, The New Yorker, 4 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1805, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for self-assertion

• reassertion
• assertion
• cistercian
• coercion
• desertion
• exertion
• insertion
• mercian
• overexertion

Kids Definition

self-assertion

noun

self-as·​ser·​tion

ˌsel-fə-ˈsər-shən

1

: the act of asserting oneself or one's own rights or claims

2

: the act of asserting that one is better than others

self-assertive

-ˈsərt-iv

adjective