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Synonym Chooser

How is the word assurance distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of assurance are aplomb, 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," 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 can aplomb be used instead of assurance?

While the synonyms aplomb and assurance are close in meaning, aplomb implies a manifest self-possession in trying or challenging situations.

handled the reporters with great aplomb

When might confidence be a better fit than assurance?

The synonyms confidence and assurance are sometimes interchangeable, 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 is self-possession a more appropriate choice than assurance?

The words self-possession and assurance can be used in similar contexts, but 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 assurance Those assurances did little to tamp down concerns from civil rights groups and immigration lawyers. Luis Ferré-Sadurní, New York Times, 10 Apr. 2025 About a dozen House conservatives ultimately flipped their opposition after receiving assurances from leaders that the Senate would pursue $1.5 trillion in savings, at a minimum. Kathryn Watson, CBS News, 10 Apr. 2025 As the House vote on the budget resolution looms, however, those on the right flank are searching for assurances in order to get on board. Mychael Schnell, The Hill, 9 Apr. 2025 While SpaceX has a clear advantage in number of launches, schedule assurance, and pricing—and reliability comparable to ULA—Bruno has recently touted the Vulcan rocket's ability to maneuver over long periods in space as a differentiator. ArsTechnica, 5 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for assurance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for assurance
Noun
  • The lack of certainty about what is leading some scholars to lose their right to study in the US is sending a chill through the international student community.
    Caroll Alvarado, CNN Money, 9 Apr. 2025
  • Amid the economic certainty, this summer is expected to be slower than usual for the travel industry, according to new research by Bank of Montreal.
    Joey Garrison, USA Today, 9 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The back-and-forth over tariffs shook confidence in U.S. leadership, exposed fractures within Trump’s team and rattled companies that rely on global sources for products and international customers for sales.
    Time, Time, 10 Apr. 2025
  • This uncertainty is eroding confidence in traditional safe-haven assets, contributing to broader market instability.
    Tony Zhang, CNBC, 9 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Polk County prosecutors argued otherwise, and proved their case to the satisfaction of a jury, which convicted Johnson on April 9 of first-degree murder for Loffredo's death.
    William Morris, USA Today, 19 Apr. 2025
  • Much in the way tiny things make our brains feel in control and organized, vacuuming my car brings me that sense of satisfaction and power over one of the messy aspects of my life.
    Nena Farrell, Wired News, 19 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Smith fills a vital role as a defensive-minded midfielder who is adept at winning balls in the air and never losing her composure.
    Matt Le Cren, Chicago Tribune, 14 Apr. 2025
  • Their insights can offer new perspectives and practical advice on how to manage rejection while maintaining your professional composure.
    Benjamin Laker, Forbes.com, 11 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Carlos Ambriz, a 53-year-old Mexican national, made contact with ICE officers while serving a 40-year sentence in the Montana State Prison for a deliberate homicide conviction and was served a notice to appear before an immigration judge.
    Elizabeth Pritchett, FOXNews.com, 8 Apr. 2025
  • His defense team had sought a full acquittal on the charge of making murder threats and a lesser penalty for the theft conviction.
    John W. Dean, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • That self-assurance helped the gifted actor make history, becoming the youngest person to sign a first-look deal at a studio at 14 years old.
    Angelique Jackson, Variety, 10 Apr. 2025
  • With layers that start below the chin and frame your face so flattering, this hairstyle is supposed to exude the self-assurance and effortlessly chic attitude of the quintessential 1990s model cuts (think Cindy Crawford and Claudia Schiffer).
    Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 5 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Assurance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/assurance. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

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