Definition of confidencenext
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as in secret
information shared only with another or with a select few accused him of betraying an important confidence

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word confidence distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of confidence are aplomb, assurance, 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," confidence stresses faith in oneself and one's powers without any suggestion of conceit or arrogance.

the confidence that comes from long experience

In what contexts can aplomb take the place of confidence?

While in some cases nearly identical to confidence, aplomb implies a manifest self-possession in trying or challenging situations.

handled the reporters with great aplomb

When could assurance be used to replace confidence?

The words assurance and confidence 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 might self-possession be a better fit than confidence?

The words self-possession and confidence 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 confidence That gave me the confidence to let my curiosity lead more than my fear. Ethan Shanfeld, Variety, 30 June 2026 Raurell hopes to continue expanding Storm Smart into more South Florida schools, giving more students the knowledge and confidence to prepare before the next hurricane threatens the region. Najahe Sherman, CBS News, 30 June 2026 This landmark victory will give all states, not just West Virginia, the clarity and confidence to ensure fairness and safety for female athletes today and for generations to come. Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 30 June 2026 Low-confidence answers delivered with high-confidence prose are your biggest risk. Ray Makela, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for confidence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for confidence
Noun
  • This potential confidence-as-assurance issue has increased as digital assets become more integrated with payments, trading, tax reporting, and anti-money-laundering programs.
    Sean Stein Smith, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026
  • The new powers would also include information from third parties, such as age assurance technology providers, to test claims made by the platforms about how those under 16 continued to circumvent the ban, the statement said.
    ABC News, ABC News, 28 June 2026
Noun
  • Waiting for certainty mostly means arriving after the repricing is done.
    Tenzin Seldon, Fortune, 21 June 2026
  • Who was lauded more for their work as Germany celebrated their victory, and the certainty of qualification?
    Amy Lawrence, New York Times, 21 June 2026
Noun
  • November 22 – December 21 Shared money, trust, and private agreements need careful language.
    Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 29 June 2026
  • Sagittarius November 22 – December 21 Shared money, trust, and private agreements need careful language.
    Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 29 June 2026
Noun
  • The two answer a royal summons to investigate a cursed palace whose secrets even the King cannot speak of openly.
    Hannah Abraham, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026
  • But as demand surges, rival factions, deadly secrets, and supernatural forces close in, pulling them deeper into a violent and inescapable nightmare of crime, horror, and family legacy.
    Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 30 June 2026
Noun
  • Control and composure are at the core of this leadership philosophy.
    Kate Wieczorek, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026
  • In a 1-1 game in the 10th, Brewers reliever Joel Kuhnel lost his composure after issuing an intentional walk to Crow-Armstrong to face Alex Bregman with runners on the corners and two outs.
    Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 28 June 2026
Noun
  • For example, a recent study found that remote workers coming to the office one day a month increases productivity by 8% and cuts attrition by a third while boosting job satisfaction and improving communication.
    Jessica Guynn, USA Today, 29 June 2026
  • Winners include people and businesses recognized for outstanding service and customer satisfaction.
    Jane Godiner, Baltimore Sun, 29 June 2026
Noun
  • Furthermore, no one will be discriminated against on the basis of their religious faith.
    Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 24 June 2026
  • Other critics question whether religious stories should be taught at all in schools attended by thousands of children of Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu and other faiths, and others who identify as atheist or agnostic.
    ABC News, ABC News, 24 June 2026
Noun
  • In foreign policy, too, the democracies need to regain self-confidence—and back democratic allies against forces that threaten our systems and values.
    Simon Sebag Montefiore, The Atlantic, 28 June 2026
  • The museum’s mission is to foster curiosity, self-confidence, and a love of learning in children through enriching, hands-on exhibits and programs.
    Skye Sherman, Southern Living, 28 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Confidence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/confidence. Accessed 2 Jul. 2026.

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