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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 To give women a better shot at quality dates and real romance, Young advocates for assertive blocking on apps like Bumble — whether a guy is a genuine creep or just not particularly appealing — in order to narrow the field of would-be suitors to the most promising candidates. Miles Klee, Rolling Stone, 23 Apr. 2025 Brown did look more comfortable and assertive in his return from a lingering knee injury, and Mazzulla said the All-Star did not suffer any setbacks. Zack Cox, Boston Herald, 22 Apr. 2025 The families of the disappeared hoped for years that Sheinbaum, with her activist background, would be more assertive and compassionate than the men who preceded her. Stephania Taladrid, New Yorker, 21 Apr. 2025 Be assertive if a coyote nears, N.C. wildlife officers advise. Joe Marusak, Charlotte Observer, 12 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for assertive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for assertive
Adjective
  • However, thanks to aggressive conservation efforts, including predator control programs, habitat restoration, and breeding initiatives, several kiwi species have seen rebounds.
    Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 11 May 2025
  • Even so, the aggressive play in this post-season has stood out.
    Louisa Thomas, New Yorker, 11 May 2025
Adjective
  • Since his emphatic win at Oak Hill two years ago, Brooks Koepka has failed to post a top-10 at a major championship.
    Kevin Sabet, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 May 2025
  • However, Lincoln-Sudbury had an answer, and an emphatic one at that as goaltender Rex Garozzo jogged up the field with possession.
    Brendan Connelly, Boston Herald, 14 May 2025
Adjective
  • Much of World Liberty Financial's operation is still shrouded in mystery, but its founders have touted its ambitious goal of integrating their venture into the everyday traditional retail system.
    Soo Rin Kim, ABC News, 3 May 2025
  • In March, Zeldin announced ambitious plans to review and potentially roll back more than two dozen environmental rules and policies.
    Alejandra Borunda, NPR, 2 May 2025
Adjective
  • Meanwhile, Carroll Gardens has been swept up in the vigorous market for Brooklyn townhouses in general — contract signings were up 11 percent last year, according to Serhant.
    Kim Velsey, Curbed, 8 May 2025
  • Despite vigorous opposition from Congressional Democrats and conservation groups, the House Natural Resource Committee early this morning approved a budget bill that includes a provision to sell thousands of acres of federal land in Nevada and Utah.
    Andrew McKean, Outdoor Life, 7 May 2025
Adjective
  • Combs apologized for his violent behavior soon after the video's release.
    Patrick Ryan, USA Today, 16 May 2025
  • For that reason, Torres-Chirinos is also charged with two counts of possession of a firearm during the commission of a violent crime and one count of possession of a firearm by an unlawful alien.
    Chris Spargo, People.com, 16 May 2025
Adjective
  • Portable training accounts, which follow workers across jobs, would provide continuity in a dynamic economy.
    Lynn Forester de Rothschild, Time, 11 May 2025
  • Really? Decades ago, at Albertus Magnus College, my class in modern poetry was taught by Sister Norma, a dynamic nun who had written her Ph.D. dissertation on William Butler Yeats.
    Patricia Schultheis, Baltimore Sun, 11 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Assertive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/assertive. Accessed 21 May. 2025.

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