Definition of assurancenext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word assurance distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of assurance are aplomb, 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," 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 can aplomb be used instead of assurance?

While the synonyms aplomb and assurance are close in meaning, aplomb implies a manifest self-possession in trying or challenging situations.

handled the reporters with great aplomb

When might confidence be a better fit than assurance?

The synonyms confidence and assurance are sometimes interchangeable, 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 is self-possession a more appropriate choice than assurance?

The words self-possession and assurance can be used in similar contexts, but 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 assurance Soon after, the weapon used is traced back to Sverre Olsen (Arthur Hakalahti), a young arms dealer operating in a downtown warehouse populated by the city’s underworld and, according to the 70 percent assurance of face recognition expert Beate (Ellen Helinder), a familiar presence within the force. Jon O'Brien, IndieWire, 23 Mar. 2026 Rodrigo Olalquiaga, project manager for AECOM, which oversees district construction, responded that the engineer for Stratus had provided assurance that the site was safe. Scott Travis, Sun Sentinel, 22 Mar. 2026 Green said his chief of staff spoke to the White House and received assurances the islands would have federal support. Jennifer Sinco Kelleher, Chicago Tribune, 21 Mar. 2026 Trump made similar assurances before ordering the demolition of the East Wing of the White House. Alex Ross, New Yorker, 19 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for assurance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for assurance
Noun
  • For now, there is but one certainty—that the hopes and lives of Iranians don’t matter.
    Jason Rezaian, New Yorker, 24 Mar. 2026
  • While systems’ responses to crises typically seek to impose order and certainty, art creates spaces where uncertainty and ambiguity are embraced rather than denied.
    Jane M. Saks, Chicago Tribune, 23 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Neither your father, nor I, knowing very little about you, have any confidence that you can be expected to handle filing your taxes by yourself.
    Lana Schwartz, New Yorker, 24 Mar. 2026
  • The Stars spent a majority of time on defense but played with more attacking confidence in the second half.
    CBS News, CBS News, 23 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Beyer, who has a warm smile and bright-pink glasses, did not hide her satisfaction.
    Eyal Press, New Yorker, 30 Mar. 2026
  • Cities that ranked highest tended to perform well in areas such as emotional and physical well-being, job satisfaction and strong community ties.
    Kelly McGreal, FOXNews.com, 29 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Dodgers right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto went into his final start of the spring with a focus on throwing first-pitch strikes, while also hoping to test his composure with men on base.
    Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 21 Mar. 2026
  • Despite the tough outing, Yearwood's composure against the rest of Texas A&M's lineup impressed Trout.
    Caleb Yum, Austin American Statesman, 18 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • The decision came nearly five years after Cosby was freed from prison in Pennsylvania when the state Supreme Court threw out a criminal conviction based on similar allegations.
    Andrew Dalton, Chicago Tribune, 24 Mar. 2026
  • The Fear of 13, the wrongful conviction drama starring Adrien Brody, grossed $474,131 for three previews at the James Earl Jones, with attendance at 98% of capacity; opening night is April 15.
    Greg Evans, Deadline, 24 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Stylist Sydnee Paige—whose credits include actress Kerry Washington, WNBA player Skylar Diggins, and comedian Ziwe—has been working with Fudd since last September and can already attest to her blooming self-assurance.
    Jordan Robinson, SELF, 19 Mar. 2026
  • With layers that start below the chin and frame your face so flattering, this hairstyle is supposed to exude the self-assurance and effortlessly chic attitude of the quintessential 1990s model cuts (think Cindy Crawford and Claudia Schiffer).
    Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 7 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Assurance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/assurance. Accessed 30 Mar. 2026.

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