Synonyms of self-possession

self-possession

noun

1

as in composure

evenness of emotions or temper

that neurosurgeon's self-possession in the operating room is legendary

Synonyms & Similar Words

• composure
• calmness
• tranquillity
• equanimity
• collectedness
• sangfroid
• imperturbability
• coolness
• serenity
• equilibrium
• aplomb
• countenance
• placidity
• confidence
• tranquility
• self-assurance
• assurance
• repose
• poise
• self-confidence
• tranquilness
• composedness
• cool
• self-composedness
• self-assuredness
• self-trust
• impassivity
• indifference
• unconcern
• detachment
• numbness
• insensibility
• phlegm
• apathy
• easygoingness
• laid-backness

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• agitation
• perturbation
• anxiety
• concern
• apprehension
• uneasiness
• discomposure
• solicitude
• care
• disquiet
• alarm
• worry
• anxiousness
• nervousness
• excitability
• apprehensiveness
• disturbance
• alarum
• excitableness

2

as in restraint

the power to control one's actions, impulses, or emotions

the little girl's self-possession very occasionally gave way to crying fits

Synonyms & Similar Words

• restraint
• composure
• temperance
• nerve
• determination
• self-control
• willpower
• self-command
• self-discipline
• self-mastery
• will
• confidence
• self-containment
• self-government
• self-restraint
• temperateness
• continence
• discipline
• assurance
• moderation
• abnegation
• mastery
• self-abnegation
• equanimity
• poise
• soberness
• self-confidence
• forbearance
• sobriety
• self-denial
• control
• coolness
• moderateness
• avoidance
• aplomb
• abstention
• abstinence
• eschewal
• command
• discretion

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• gratification
• indulgence
• intemperance
• feebleness
• excessiveness
• weakness
• overindulgence
• failing
• self-indulgence
• vice
• frailty
• fault
• shortcoming
• demerit
• foible
• unrestraint
• intemperateness
• indiscipline
• immoderacy
• unreserve
• unconstraint
• unreservedness

Synonym Chooser

How is the word self-possession distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of self-possession are aplomb, assurance, and confidence. While all these words mean "a state of mind or a manner marked by easy coolness and freedom from uncertainty, diffidence, or embarrassment," 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

When might aplomb be a better fit than self-possession?

In some situations, the words aplomb and self-possession are roughly equivalent. However, aplomb implies a manifest self-possession in trying or challenging situations.

handled the reporters with great aplomb

When could assurance be used to replace self-possession?

The meanings of assurance and self-possession largely overlap; however, 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 confidence be used instead of self-possession?

Although the words confidence and self-possession have much in common, confidence stresses faith in oneself and one's powers without any suggestion of conceit or arrogance.

the confidence that comes from long experience