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Reassuring: meaning, definitions and examples

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reassuring

 

[rɪˈʃʊərɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling of comfort

Serving or intended to remove someone's doubts or fears; reassuring. Providing comfort or solace.

Synonyms

comforting, encouraging, soothing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reassuring

Best used when someone needs their doubts dispelled or confidence restored. It's often used when someone is worried or anxious.

  • Her smile was reassuring, making me believe everything would be alright.
  • The doctor's words were reassuring, helping the patient feel more at ease before the procedure.
comforting

Appropriate when providing solace or support to someone who is distressed, sad, or grieving. It has a slightly more emotional and empathetic tone.

  • His hug was comforting, providing much-needed warmth and support.
  • The comforting words from her friend helped her get through the tough time.
soothing

Used when something provides a calming effect, especially in relation to physical or emotional discomfort. It has a gentle, calming tone.

  • The soothing music made it easier for her to fall asleep.
  • Her voice had a soothing effect on the crying baby.
encouraging

Ideal for scenarios where motivation or a boost of confidence is needed. It implies supporting and motivating someone to keep going or to do their best.

  • His teacher’s encouraging words inspired him to keep practicing.
  • The crowd's cheers were encouraging, giving her the energy to finish the race.

Examples of usage

  • He gave me a reassuring smile.
  • The doctor's reassuring words helped calm my nerves.
  • The presence of her best friend was reassuring during the difficult time.
Context #2 | Verb

giving confidence

To say or do something to remove someone's doubts or fears; to give confidence to someone.

Synonyms

comfort, console, encourage.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
reassuring

Used when you want to make someone feel less worried or anxious about something.

  • She gave him a reassuring smile
  • His reassuring words made her feel better about the situation
comfort

Used when offering support and relief to someone who is in distress or experiencing sadness.

  • He tried to comfort her after the bad news
  • The blanket gave her a sense of comfort
console

Used when providing solace or sympathy to someone who is experiencing grief or disappointment, often implying a stronger sense of emotional support.

  • She consoled him after his loss
  • He took some time to console his friend after the breakup
encourage

Used when giving someone support, confidence, or hope, typically to motivate them to continue or improve.

  • Her teacher encouraged her to pursue her dreams
  • They encouraged him to take on the challenge

Examples of usage

  • She reassured him that everything would be alright.
  • The teacher reassured the students before the exam.
  • The success of the project reassured the investors.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the prefix 're-' meaning 'again' and 'assure', which means 'to make sure'.
  • It entered the English language in the late 14th century, evolving from Middle French.
  • The root 'assure' has Latin origins, from 'assecurare', meaning 'to make safe'.

Psychology

  • Reassurance can significantly reduce anxiety levels, helping individuals to feel more secure.
  • Studies show that verbal reassurance from trusted figures can enhance coping mechanisms in stressful situations.
  • Non-verbal cues, like a warm smile or gentle touch, can also produce reassurance similarly to words.

Literature

  • In many classic novels, characters often seek reassurance from others during times of conflict or doubt.
  • Poets frequently explore themes of reassurance in their works, illustrating the human need for comfort.
  • Reassuring phrases are pivotal in literature, evoking emotions of hope and security in readers.

Pop Culture

  • Songs often include themes of reassurance, with lyrics encouraging listeners to stay hopeful or strong.
  • In film narratives, the character who provides reassurance often acts as the voice of hope, guiding others through challenges.
  • TV shows often feature friends or family offering reassurances to each other, highlighting the importance of support.

Science

  • Research suggests that reassurance can trigger the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and trust.
  • Neurological studies show that feeling reassured activates brain pathways related to comfort and safety.
  • Animal behavior studies indicate that young animals often seek reassurance from their mothers, demonstrating a universal need across species.

Translations

Translations of the word "reassuring" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tranquilizador

🇮🇳 आश्वस्त करने वाला (āśvast karne vālā)

🇩🇪 beruhigend

🇮🇩 menenangkan

🇺🇦 заспокійливий

🇵🇱 uspokajający

🇯🇵 安心させる (anshin saseru)

🇫🇷 rassurant

🇪🇸 tranquilizador

🇹🇷 rahatlatıcı

🇰🇷 안심시키는 (ansim sikineun)

🇸🇦 مطمئن (mutma'in)

🇨🇿 uklidňující

🇸🇰 upokojujúci

🇨🇳 令人安心的 (lìng rén ānxīn de)

🇸🇮 pomirjujoč

🇮🇸 hughreystandi

🇰🇿 тыныштандыратын

🇬🇪 დამამშვიდებელი (damamshvidebeli)

🇦🇿 təsəlliverici

🇲🇽 tranquilizador

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,752, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.