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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective assertive contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of assertive are aggressive, militant, and self-assertive. While all these words mean "obtrusively energetic especially in pursuing particular goals," assertive suggests bold self-confidence in expression of opinion.

the more assertive speakers dominated the forum

When is it sensible to use aggressive instead of assertive?

While the synonyms aggressive and assertive are close in meaning, 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 is militant a more appropriate choice than assertive?

The meanings of militant and assertive largely overlap; however, 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

In what contexts can self-assertive take the place of assertive?

While in some cases nearly identical to assertive, self-assertive connotes forwardness or brash self-confidence.

a self-assertive young upstart

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 assertive Bulls fans have seen this movie plenty of times before — an assertive start to take a first-half lead followed by a midgame collapse that squandered an entire advantage. Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 28 Mar. 2025 As for what the wares shown on designers’ runways in The City of Light suggested: lean into the weird, assertive, and arty—sexiness be damned! Julian Randall, Essence, 12 Mar. 2025 In fact, Trump’s assertive actions on tariffs and immigration have raised concerns that inflation could return. Trefis Team, Forbes, 20 Mar. 2025 But England do need to be more assertive in possession, and in particular, more tactically flexible within games. Michael Cox, The Athletic, 20 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for assertive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for assertive
Adjective
  • There are also more aggressive interventions for people with severe allergies who don’t respond to other medicines like desensitization therapy, also known as allergy shots.
    Umair Irfan, Wired News, 5 Apr. 2025
  • The two were very aggressive from the start of the fight, with a lot of output.
    Trent Reinsmith, Forbes.com, 5 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The former 154-pound champion started putting the building blocks back in place to make a run back at a world title with an emphatic fourth-round TKO win over Joey Spencer.
    Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 6 Apr. 2025
  • Over the years in live performances, Elton has often put a bit more shine on the back half, buoying the vocals and banging through emphatic piano accompaniments.
    Shana Naomi Krochmal, Vulture, 4 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • In the 20th century, industrial policy evolved into an ambitious tool for both economic and geopolitical advancement.
    Made by History, Time, 1 Apr. 2025
  • This represented a major blow to Beijing’s ambitious port diplomacy in the region.
    MATIAS SPEKTOR, Foreign Affairs, 1 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • These look sporty and have high side bolsters, which keep you firmly in place during vigorous driving.
    James Morris, Forbes.com, 5 Apr. 2025
  • Seedlings seem susceptible to diseases and not vigorous enough to form the new turf.
    Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 29 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Third, the violent reaction in financial markets that followed Mr. Trump's latest tariff salvo could persuade him to change course.
    Alain Sherter, CBS News, 9 Apr. 2025
  • Adams said the pair had discussed how to combat violent migrant gangs and embedding more New York Police Department officers into federal task forces.
    Michael Dorgan, FOXNews.com, 9 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • With its expansion into Morocco and a dynamic competition format, the league is elevating the sport’s profile globally.
    Sindiswa Mabunda, Forbes.com, 5 Apr. 2025
  • Big changes are afoot in Panama’s film industry as a young, dynamic (and mostly female) team backed by its newish President José Raúl Mulino is spearheading new initiatives.
    Anna Marie de la Fuente, Variety, 5 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Assertive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/assertive. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

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