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assertiveness

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /əˈsɜːtɪvnəs/

KK: /əˈsɜrtɪvnəs/

noun
Definition

The quality of being confident and able to express one's opinions or needs clearly and firmly.


Example

Her assertiveness in meetings helped her team achieve their goals.


Conversation
Sloth A
I've been trying to work on my assertiveness lately.
Sloth B
That's a great goal! It really helps in so many situations.
Sloth A
Yeah, I think being more assertive can make a difference in my job.
Sloth B
Absolutely! People will respect you more when you express yourself clearly.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
confidence
boldness
self-assurance
Antonyms
timidity
submissiveness
hesitance
Root Explanation

Assertiveness → It is formed from "assert" (from Latin "assertus", meaning to affirm or declare) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "assertiveness" refers to the quality of being confident and self-assured in expressing one's opinions or needs.

Memory Tip

Think of the act of 'affirming' or 'declaring' something confidently — that's what assertiveness means, the quality of being confident in expressing yourself.

Visually Confused Words
unassertiveness
overassertiveness
secretiveness
passiveness
massiveness
susceptiveness
separativeness
astrictiveness
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