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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective assertive contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of assertive are aggressive, militant, and self-assertive. While all these words mean "obtrusively energetic especially in pursuing particular goals," assertive suggests bold self-confidence in expression of opinion.

the more assertive speakers dominated the forum

When is it sensible to use aggressive instead of assertive?

While the synonyms aggressive and assertive are close in meaning, aggressive implies a disposition to dominate often in disregard of others' rights or in determined and energetic pursuit of one's ends.

aggressive in his business dealings

When is militant a more appropriate choice than assertive?

The meanings of militant and assertive largely overlap; however, militant also implies a fighting disposition but suggests not self-seeking but devotion to a cause, movement, or principle.

militant protesters rallied against the new law

In what contexts can self-assertive take the place of assertive?

While in some cases nearly identical to assertive, self-assertive connotes forwardness or brash self-confidence.

a self-assertive young upstart

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 assertive Slip dresses and pleated minis added a youthful, feminine energy, while the tailoring remained crisp and assertive–a nod to the brand’s legacy in professional womenswear. Lee Sharrock, Forbes.com, 14 Sep. 2025 Michèle comes across as a singular and powerful personality, with something of Akerman’s own trenchant intellect, assertive candor, and vulnerable self-revelation. Richard Brody, New Yorker, 10 Sep. 2025 An assertive Iran has been especially a thorn in the side of Saudi Arabia, which strives to be the dominant Muslim majority power in the region. David Mednicoff, The Conversation, 9 Sep. 2025 As women, we’re often expected to balance contradictions – assertive but not aggressive, visionary but pragmatic. Wwd Staff, Footwear News, 8 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for assertive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for assertive
Adjective
  • Google, Apple and others have no choice but to be aggressive in integrating AI functions into their products.
    Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 21 Sep. 2025
  • Both drivers are known for being aggressive on track and racing hard.
    Nelson Espinal, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Cassellius has been emphatic about reading improvement as a priority for MPS.
    Alan J. Borsuk, jsonline.com, 26 Sep. 2025
  • During the quarter-century of Stalin’s rule, through extraordinary exertion and sacrifice, the Soviet people had built the world’s first socialist system, whose vitality was conclusively demonstrated in the minds of many contemporaries by its emphatic victory over Nazi Germany.
    Benjamin Nathans September 24, Literary Hub, 24 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • This double release proves that their most ambitious and incisive work may still lie ahead.
    Tere Aguilera, Billboard, 26 Sep. 2025
  • Leadership has described ambitious targets.
    Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 26 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Adults need at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise per week, according to the World Health Organization.
    Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 20 Sep. 2025
  • The credit union gives back via vigorous associate volunteer work in community activities and organizations including Children Miracle Network and Children’s Hospital of Orange County, Crime Survivors, Hope Builders, KidWorks, Latinos in Action, NeighborWorks Orange County and OC United Way.
    Shawn Price, Oc Register, 19 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Brown is particularly known for his roles in violent abolitionist efforts in the Pottawatamie Massacre and the raid on Harpers Ferry, a federal arsenal in West Virginia.
    Christopher Tremoglie, The Washington Examiner, 25 Sep. 2025
  • The 2024 election campaign was Mexico’s most violent in modern history, with more than three dozen candidates assassinated and many others dropping out over threats to their safety.
    Daniel DePetris, Time, 24 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • CEOs and global leaders will gather for a dynamic, invitation-only event shaping the future of business.
    Jordan Blum, Fortune, 25 Sep. 2025
  • The machine’s dynamic focusing system ensures uniform marking, guaranteeing accuracy and consistency across production.
    Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 25 Sep. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Assertive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/assertive. Accessed 29 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on assertive

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