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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
Adjective
  • State legislators have been trying for years to boost local education aid without weakening an aggressive savings program that’s been wiping out Connecticut’s debts faster than ever before.
    Jessika Harkay, Hartford Courant, 28 Feb. 2025
  • With Oklahoma City, currently the best and most aggressive defense in the league by a wide margin, there isn’t just one candidate.
    Shane Young, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • The actor has one daughter with ex-wife Melanie Griffith and has been dating his girlfriend Nicole Kimpel since 2014. 05 of 09 John Lithgow as Lord Farquaad The actor behind the arrogant Lord Farquaad boasts an impressive career that began decades before Shrek came out in 2001.
    Zoey Lyttle, People.com, 1 Mar. 2025
  • Many members of its board appeared arrogant in the face of questions from the prosecutor or one of the lawyers.
    Laia Cervelló Herrero, The Athletic, 23 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • At an ambitious 95 minutes, Ghost Boy tends to lag in places, but both director and narrator are aware of their story’s potential to get stuck in a groove, and both are there to pick up the slack whenever it’s needed.
    Damon Wise, Deadline, 8 Mar. 2025
  • With an extra hour of light, residents in Southern California can go horseback riding in Catalina, hiking ambitious trails or biking along L.A.’s coast.
    Kevinisha Walker, Los Angeles Times, 8 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • The bill has been met with both fierce opposition and staunch support from students, professors and community members across the state.
    Amanda McCard, Hartford Courant, 8 Mar. 2025
  • With Zverev looking to cement his dominance, Alcaraz aiming for a repeat title, and Fritz eager to defend home soil, the competition will be fierce from day one.
    Tommy Tuberville, Newsweek, 7 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Self-assertive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/self-assertive. Accessed 13 Mar. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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