Assertiveness: meaning, definitions and examples

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assertiveness

 

[ əˌsɜːrˈtɪv.nəs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

communication style

Assertiveness is the quality of being self-assured and confident without being aggressive. It is a communication style that is direct, honest, and respectful of others' boundaries.

Synonyms

boldness, confidence, self-assurance.

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Word Description / Examples
assertiveness

This word is best used in situations where someone is standing up for their rights or opinions in a positive, respectful manner without being aggressive.

  • Her assertiveness in the meeting helped the team understand the importance of the new project.
  • He showed assertiveness by calmly explaining his perspective.
confidence

Use this word to describe a general sense of self-belief and trust in one's abilities, without necessarily confronting others.

  • Her confidence shone through when she delivered the keynote address.
  • With growing confidence, he managed to complete the task efficiently.
self-assurance

This word works well for describing someone’s internal sense of security and calm, often in the face of challenges or new experiences.

  • His self-assurance was evident even when he faced unexpected questions.
  • She handled the situation with a remarkable level of self-assurance.
boldness

Boldness is suitable in contexts where taking risks or facing fears is involved, often implying a sense of bravery or daring.

  • His boldness allowed him to skydive despite his fear of heights.
  • She admired the boldness of the artist in using unconventional materials.

Examples of usage

  • His assertiveness in the meeting helped to clarify the team's goals.
  • She handled the difficult situation with assertiveness and grace.
  • Assertiveness training can help individuals improve their communication skills.
  • Being assertive means expressing your thoughts and feelings clearly and respectfully.
  • Assertiveness is important in setting boundaries and standing up for yourself.

Translations

Translations of the word "assertiveness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 assertividade

🇮🇳 आत्मविश्वास

🇩🇪 Durchsetzungsvermögen

🇮🇩 ketegasan

🇺🇦 напористість

🇵🇱 asertywność

🇯🇵 自己主張

🇫🇷 assertivité

🇪🇸 asertividad

🇹🇷 kendine güven

🇰🇷 자기 주장

🇸🇦 الثقة بالنفس

🇨🇿 asertivita

🇸🇰 asertívnosť

🇨🇳 自信

🇸🇮 asertivnost

🇮🇸 ákveðni

🇰🇿 өзіндік сенімділік

🇬🇪 თავდაჯერებულობა

🇦🇿 özünə inam

🇲🇽 asertividad

Etymology

The term 'assertiveness' originated in the mid-20th century and is derived from the verb 'assert,' which comes from the Latin word 'assertus,' meaning 'to declare, affirm.' Assertiveness as a concept gained popularity in psychology and communication studies for its emphasis on healthy self-expression and effective communication.

See also: assert, asserting, assertion, assertions, assertive, assertively.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,698, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.