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assertive
/əˈsɜːrtɪv/
confident and direct in expressing opinions
She was assertive during the negotiation, clearly stating her demands.
She confidently and directly expressed her opinions during the negotiation.
informal
Having or showing a confident and forceful personality, often in expressing opinions or making demands.
An assertive leader inspires confidence in their team.
A leader who is confident and direct in their communication inspires trust.
Being assertive doesn't mean being aggressive; it's about standing up for yourself respectfully.
Assertiveness involves expressing yourself confidently without being hostile.
Assertiveness is often contrasted with passivity (avoiding conflict) and aggressiveness (hostile or domineering behavior).
Collocations
assertive communicationa style of communication that is confident and directassertive behaviorbehavior that confidently expresses one's needs and opinions
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Assertiveness vs. Aggressiveness
Assertiveness is about respectfully standing up for yourself, while aggressiveness involves hostility or dominance.
Gold Rule
The Assertiveness Formula
Use 'I' statements (e.g., 'I feel... when...') to express yourself assertively without blaming others.
Word Origin
From Latin 'assertus' (past participle of 'asserere', meaning 'to affirm'), via French 'assertif'.
Usage Notes
Assertiveness is a key skill in leadership, negotiation, and interpersonal relationships. It involves expressing oneself clearly and confidently without violating others' rights.
Word Breakdown
assert
to state a fact or belief confidently
root-ive
having the quality of
suffixEnglish Dictionary