self-assertive

adjective

ˌself-ə-ˈsər-tiv How to pronounce self-assertive (audio)
Definition of self-assertivenext
1
as in aggressive
having or showing a bold forcefulness in the pursuit of a goal we need to hire self-assertive salespeople who don't require constant supervision

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
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
  1. aggressive
  2. arrogant
  3. ambitious
  4. fierce
Adjective
  • The two were very aggressive from the start of the fight, with a lot of output.
    — Trent Reinsmith, Forbes.com, 5 Apr. 2025
  • 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
Definition of aggressive
Adjective
  • Ava Daniels is a young comedy writer who is unable to find work due to an insensitive tweet and her reputation for being self-centered and arrogant.
    — Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025
  • And the villains, of course, exuding every nastily relatable emotion; the stepmothers and sorceresses are vain, arrogant, dismissive, lonely, rude, and outrageous.
    — Darren Franich, Vulture, 26 Mar. 2025
Definition of arrogant
Adjective
  • By December 2023, the private equity firm had taken a majority stake in the British business and set an ambitious expansion plan; targeting 350 outlets by 2031.
    — Kevin Rozario, Forbes.com, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Expanding Capacity, Restoring Traditions The fellows have ambitious plans for their funding.
    — Melissa Noel, Essence, 9 Apr. 2025
Definition of ambitious
Adjective
  • The Jackson estate explicitly wanted nothing about Chandler in the film, so fact that the allegations do appear has led to a fierce internal dispute and extensive reshoots, Deadline has confirmed.
    — Anthony D'Alessandro, Deadline, 2 Apr. 2025
  • November 1911 debacle wasn't Curie's first time in the public eye: the French Academy of Sciences had recently turned down her application to join, a decision which came after months of public debate and fierce criticism of Curie in the press.
    — Kiona N. Smith, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025
Definition of fierce

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self-assertiveness
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Cite this Entry

“Self-assertive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-assertive. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025.

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