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as in arrogant
having a feeling of superiority that shows itself in an overbearing attitude after the interview, we chose a less self-assertive and more self-effacing applicant

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective self-assertive contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of self-assertive are aggressive, assertive, and militant. While all these words mean "obtrusively energetic especially in pursuing particular goals," self-assertive connotes forwardness or brash self-confidence.

a self-assertive young upstart

When would aggressive be a good substitute for self-assertive?

The words aggressive and self-assertive can be used in similar contexts, but 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 could assertive be used to replace self-assertive?

In some situations, the words assertive and self-assertive are roughly equivalent. However, assertive suggests bold self-confidence in expression of opinion.

the more assertive speakers dominated the forum

When is it sensible to use militant instead of self-assertive?

The synonyms militant and self-assertive are sometimes interchangeable, but 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

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 self-assertive The only really odious members of the party will, of course, be those termed the Young, who are almost certain to prove fast, rude, and self-assertive. Nancy Mitford, Vogue, 24 Dec. 2023
Recent Examples of Synonyms for self-assertive
Adjective
  • President Donald Trump is continuing his outreach to Senate Republicans -- critical to advancing his Cabinet nominees and aggressive agenda.
    Hannah Demissie, ABC News, 4 Feb. 2025
  • An aggressive strain of avian flu is hurting supply and causing prices to rise — with no relief in sight.
    Jordan Valinsky, CNN, 4 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • The Inside Llewyn Davis star plays Victor Frankenstein, the arrogant scientist who successfully creates life out of an assemblage of deceased body parts.
    Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 30 Jan. 2025
  • An arrogant advertiser at the peak of success is forced to promote a tycoon as a presidential candidate, while a mysterious stalker threatens to destroy his agency and his reputation.
    Rafa Sales Ross, Variety, 21 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Genomic sequencing, which deciphers the entire viral genome, is more ambitious.
    Lisa M. Krieger, The Mercury News, 31 Jan. 2025
  • Please, Baby, Please — the more ambitious of the two — boasted the return of Demi Moore, bringing her into the arthouse and paving the way for her career resurgence as the star of The Substance.
    Jourdain Searles, The Hollywood Reporter, 31 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • In response, Israel launched a fierce air and ground war.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 30 Jan. 2025
  • Expect shifting alliances, fierce fashion, and plenty of shade as these women navigate friendships and frenemies in the ATL.
    Shelby Stewart, Essence, 30 Jan. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near self-assertive

Cite this Entry

“Self-assertive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-assertive. Accessed 10 Feb. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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