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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 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 With so many of his peers and would-be peers unable or unwilling to figure out how to be magnetic as seniors, Roth gets a gold star for un-retiring with such aplomb. Jed Gottlieb, Boston Herald, 9 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
  • But Saban himself likely appreciated Bama’s composure against UGA.
    Stewart Mandel, New York Times, 28 Sep. 2025
  • The Golden Warriors’ composure was tested.
    Tom Mulherin, Boston Herald, 25 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Lessons will include crafting song lyrics, gaining confidence in artistic expression and pairing songwriters with students in a mentorship program.
    Bryan West, USA Today, 29 Sep. 2025
  • That the students in those schools gained focus and confidence, learning to problem-solve in and out of class.
    Jack Korngold, Rolling Stone, 28 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • In January, at Bondi’s confirmation hearing, the Democratic senator Amy Klobuchar sought assurances that Trump would not be permitted to tamper with criminal cases.
    Ruth Marcus, New Yorker, 26 Sep. 2025
  • But that is an ever-quainter assurance.
    David Karpf, The Atlantic, 24 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Popping and polished, a small but powerful ritual of self-assurance.
    Larry Stansbury, Essence, 19 Sep. 2025
  • Toney is a beacon of self-assurance and statue admired by Siegfried & Roy until his timely passing.
    Matt Grobar, Deadline, 18 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

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Cite this Entry

“Aplomb.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aplomb. Accessed 30 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on aplomb

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