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 Despite this, Kweller soldiered forward with the same mix of optimism, aplomb, and steel-trap conviction that powers him to this day. Jayson Greene, Vulture, 30 May 2025 McTominay led Napoli’s Serie A charge with aplomb after joining from Manchester United last summer on a deal worth €30million, scoring 12 league goals in 34 games. Anantaajith Raghuraman, New York Times, 30 May 2025 From the bass triplets to the sub-bass quarter notes, the speakers handle low frequencies with aplomb and give the tune its bouncing energy. PC Magazine, 27 May 2025 That’s the point of him; as the Mission: Impossible franchise’s secret agent extraordinaire, Hunt can pretend to be anyone, accomplish basically any physical task, and uncover conspiracies with aplomb. David Sims, The Atlantic, 23 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for aplomb
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aplomb
Noun
  • Their average rotation age was among the youngest ever for a champion, and yet their composure never wavered under the bright lights.
    Okla Jones, Essence, 23 June 2025
  • Beating Indiana to even the series in Game 4 on the road, then holding their composure to win Game 7 at home, would be harder than opening a bottle of Champagne.
    Andrew Greif, NBC news, 23 June 2025
Noun
  • Athit Perawongmetha | Reuters China is devising more ways for foreign institutions to use the yuan, as international confidence in the U.S. dollar falters.
    Lee Ying Shan,Evelyn Cheng, CNBC, 25 June 2025
  • Khan said the data actually instills confidence in the health of the overall housing market.
    Nick Mordowanec, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 June 2025
Noun
  • The vote remained open for more than three hours Saturday night as holdouts met with Senate GOP leaders to seek assurances on the bill.
    Kaia Hubbard, CBS News, 29 June 2025
  • Our assurance stems from a thorough evaluation that contrasts its current valuation with its historical operating performance and financial health.
    Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025
Noun
  • This growing self-assurance is accompanied by greater willingness to switch providers: 56% of U.S. women aged 25 to 34 report being likely to change banks, compared with just 19% of women over 65.
    Carrie McCabe, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025
  • Recent realizations about your life, childhood, and more have rocked your self-assurance.
    Liz Simmons, StyleCaster, 24 June 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Podcast

Cite this Entry

“Aplomb.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aplomb. Accessed 4 Jul. 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!