Synonym Chooser

How does the noun composure contrast with its synonyms?

The words equanimity and sangfroid are common synonyms of composure. While all three words mean "evenness of mind under stress," composure implies the controlling of emotional or mental agitation by an effort of will or as a matter of habit.

maintaining his composure even under hostile questioning

When is equanimity a more appropriate choice than composure?

Although the words equanimity and composure have much in common, equanimity suggests a habit of mind that is only rarely disturbed under great strain.

accepted her troubles with equanimity

Where would sangfroid be a reasonable alternative to composure?

While in some cases nearly identical to composure, sangfroid implies great coolness and steadiness under strain.

handled the situation with professional sangfroid

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 composure By the director’s standards, this is a sober and distinctly mature film, centered by the unwavering composure of Servillo’s De Santis. David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 27 Aug. 2025 Here are some tips from Rosenberg and other experts on how best to maintain your composure amid South Florida’s gridlock. Lois K. Solomon, Sun Sentinel, 20 Aug. 2025 Onana has shown his qualities — line-breaking passes, composure under pressure, and bold positioning — yet those highs have too often been followed by lows. James McNicholas, New York Times, 19 Aug. 2025 Suh displayed composure and a well-round skill set in becoming the first Orange Lutheran girl to capture the CIF singles title since Kaitlyn Christian (USC) in 2009. Dan Albano, Oc Register, 18 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for composure
Recent Examples of Synonyms for composure
Noun
  • There’s nothing quite as soothing as the drowsy calmness that washes over you when your partner runs their hands through your hair.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 25 Aug. 2025
  • David Raya came and collected a corner with typical calmness, using a quick throw to release Martin Odegaard into a four-on-four counter-attack.
    James McNicholas, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • The serenity of this secluded Côte d’Azur retreat provides a tranquil foil for The White Lotus’ explosive drama.
    Spencer Whaley, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025
  • Travel company Travelbag determined the best global vacation destinations for serenity seekers, based on factors like noise and light pollution, the number and quality of green spaces, and the local congestion levels.
    Katie Nadworny, Travel + Leisure, 8 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • While recording the song, Youmin imagined boxers in a ring, filled with confidence and coolness to fight.
    Laura Sirikul, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025
  • Today, many companies seem intent on convincing consumers of debit’s coolness.
    Michael Waters, The Atlantic, 9 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • This approach is at its most successful in In Farthest Seas, even as Romano maintains an impossible equilibrium throughout, effectively balancing each word and each epiphany within the musical whole.
    Brian Robert Moore September 5, Literary Hub, 5 Sep. 2025
  • While unemployment remains stable for now, experts warn the equilibrium is fragile, and even a modest rise in layoffs could have wider ripple effects throughout the economy.
    Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 5 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Of course, Harvard must also receive assurances that no further recrimination will follow and any disputes in the future about the deal will be resolved outside of the courts.
    Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Time, 5 Sep. 2025
  • Poland, which borders Ukraine, is seeking assurance for support due to the ongoing war with Russia, according to Reuters.
    Kinsey Crowley, USA Today, 4 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • The ups and downs of life are borne with equanimity and optimism prevails.
    Ginny Whitelaw, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2025
  • And the origin of aloha—ha being breath, life—calls to mind the Buddhist perception of happiness as equanimity.
    AFAR Media, AFAR Media, 10 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Composure.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/composure. Accessed 12 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on composure

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