1
2

Synonym Chooser

How is the word aplomb distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of aplomb are assurance, 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," aplomb implies a manifest self-possession in trying or challenging situations.

handled the reporters with great aplomb

In what contexts can assurance take the place of aplomb?

The words assurance and aplomb are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 could confidence be used to replace aplomb?

The words confidence and aplomb can be used in similar contexts, 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 would self-possession be a good substitute for aplomb?

While the synonyms self-possession and aplomb are close in meaning, 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 aplomb The wit and wordplay never cease, and there’s much pleasure to be drawn from Colman and Cumberbatch spitting McNamara’s contemptuous dialogue with aplomb. Katie Walsh, Chicago Tribune, 27 Aug. 2025 Seth Meyers handled himself with similar grace and aplomb when Hurricane Sharon blew into 30 Rock. Bethy Squires, Vulture, 15 Aug. 2025 But as details of the red-haired Brooklyn native’s resourcefulness and aplomb became clearer, her story captured the admiration of many Americans from the host of total strangers who sent her flowers and cards, to hosts of national TV news programs. Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 15 Aug. 2025 Castillo’s prose is luminous and lucid, balancing humor and emotion with wicked aplomb. Gabrielle Bellot, Literary Hub, 5 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for aplomb
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aplomb
Noun
  • Pribula, who continues to grow as a first-year starter, has shown steady composure despite last week’s loss.
    Zach Sweet, Kansas City Star, 17 Oct. 2025
  • Technical skills can be taught, but composure, teamwork and recovery under pressure are what drive performance.
    Elan Gepner-Dales, Rolling Stone, 17 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • This emotional confidence will encourage upbeat times socializing with others, as well as exploring sports events and fun activities with kids.
    Georgia Nicols, Denver Post, 20 Oct. 2025
  • The Gators’ performance didn’t appear to spark confidence in athletic director Scott Stricklin.
    Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 19 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Wings will need to know details of the programs and get assurance that the government will repay the line of credit, according to the letter.
    Gina Lee Castro, jsonline.com, 17 Oct. 2025
  • Also, there is no assurance of affordability once a developer is in the picture, and the city of Lakewood has no accounting of how many affordable units have been built, at least the number has not been made public when asked in council meetings.
    DP Opinion, Denver Post, 15 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • To me, that’s a sign of growing self-assurance, not intolerance.
    Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 15 Oct. 2025
  • Chelsea are sorely lacking leadership and self-assurance, hardly surprising given the inexperience throughout a quickly thinning squad.
    Thom Harris, New York Times, 28 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Through three games, the sixth-year quarterback has exuded a level of self-assuredness that was missing last season.
    Shreyas Laddha, Kansas City Star, 17 Sep. 2025
  • Racial issues are central to the novel, making Opal’s onstage self-assuredness a feast for her fans, lighter fluid to her haters.
    Lauren Morrow September 9, Literary Hub, 9 Sep. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Podcast

Cite this Entry

“Aplomb.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aplomb. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on aplomb

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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