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Synonym Chooser

How is the word aplomb distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of aplomb are assurance, confidence, 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," aplomb implies a manifest self-possession in trying or challenging situations.

handled the reporters with great aplomb

In what contexts can assurance take the place of aplomb?

The words assurance and aplomb 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 could confidence be used to replace aplomb?

The words confidence and aplomb can be used in similar contexts, but confidence stresses faith in oneself and one's powers without any suggestion of conceit or arrogance.

the confidence that comes from long experience

When would self-possession be a good substitute for aplomb?

While the synonyms self-possession and aplomb are close in meaning, 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 aplomb The narrative is a blank page upon which Hollywood’s most brilliant stunt choreographers go to town, and every action set piece is here weaved together with as much, if not more, aplomb than anything that has preceded it. Gregory Nussen, Deadline, 4 June 2025 Despite this, Kweller soldiered forward with the same mix of optimism, aplomb, and steel-trap conviction that powers him to this day. Jayson Greene, Vulture, 30 May 2025 McTominay led Napoli’s Serie A charge with aplomb after joining from Manchester United last summer on a deal worth €30million, scoring 12 league goals in 34 games. Anantaajith Raghuraman, New York Times, 30 May 2025 From the bass triplets to the sub-bass quarter notes, the speakers handle low frequencies with aplomb and give the tune its bouncing energy. PC Magazine, 27 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for aplomb
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aplomb
Noun
  • She was eventually taken off her flight and reportedly booked a new ticket after regaining her composure, per the outlet.
    Colson Thayer, People.com, 11 July 2025
  • Stevens’s reflections on his years of service reveal what’s pulsing beneath his composure: the choice to look away from troubling secrets and repress personal desires.
    Mia Barzilay Freund, Vogue, 7 July 2025
Noun
  • The findings show a growing generational divide in workplace confidence, and these fears are not necessarily unfounded.
    Aliss Higham, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 July 2025
  • Full of confidence and eager to prove the worth of his colt, the veteran conditioner brilliantly prepared Forever Young for another run on American soil in the 2024 Breeders’ Cup Classic.
    Danny Brewer, Forbes.com, 6 July 2025
Noun
  • That level of assurance does not appear to be materializing at this time.
    Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025
  • And there is no assurance, as recent examples indicate, that DJS will even learn that a youthful offender wearing an ankle monitor is AWOL.
    Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 11 July 2025
Noun
  • This growing self-assurance is accompanied by greater willingness to switch providers: 56% of U.S. women aged 25 to 34 report being likely to change banks, compared with just 19% of women over 65.
    Carrie McCabe, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025
  • Recent realizations about your life, childhood, and more have rocked your self-assurance.
    Liz Simmons, StyleCaster, 24 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Aplomb.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aplomb. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

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