assert itself

USAGE SUMMARY

"assert itself" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to something that begins to demonstrate or prove its presence or worth, often after a period of restraint or uncertainty. For example, "Once his voice warmed up, his natural talent began to assert itself and he earned a standing ovation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Democracy must assert itself over capitalism.

The Guardian - Opinion

But parliament needs to assert itself.

The Guardian

Only in Quebec did a very different tradition assert itself.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This retreat gave the government a chance to assert itself.

The New York Times

"Organized psychiatry has failed to assert itself," he said.

The New York Times

But when it comes to controlling budget deficits, the commission is determined to assert itself.

The Economist

Only recently has it begun to assert itself as an independent nation.

The New Yorker

The group may have also wanted to assert itself after the Shalit deal.

The New York Times

Some question whether China's middle class is eager to assert itself.

The New York Times

Not since 2007 has the government had such an opportunity to assert itself in Mogadishu.

The New York Times

Uzbekistan is central Asia's most populous state and strives to assert itself as a regional power.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "assert itself" when describing a gradual process where something gains influence or recognition after a period of being less prominent. For example, "As the company grew, its unique culture began to assert itself."

Common error

Avoid confusing "assert itself" with similar phrases that don't use a reflexive pronoun. Saying "assert it" may not convey the intended meaning of gradual influence or recognition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "assert itself" functions as a verb phrase, typically acting as the predicate of a clause. Ludwig shows its role in describing the process by which an entity, idea, or quality begins to demonstrate its presence or power.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "assert itself" is a verb phrase signifying the process of something gradually gaining recognition, influence, or prominence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media, science, and encyclopedic contexts. The phrase carries a neutral register, making it suitable for formal and professional communications. When using "assert itself", aim to describe a situation where something is progressively making its presence or power known, distinguishing it from simply "proving" something. Remember to avoid misusing similar phrases that lack the reflexive pronoun. Alternatives like "establish its presence" or "gain prominence" can be considered depending on the specific context you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish its presence

Focuses on the act of making something noticeable or recognized.

gain prominence

Emphasizes rising in importance or reputation.

come to the fore

Suggests emerging into a position of importance or notice.

demonstrate its power

Highlights the display of strength or authority.

exert influence

Focuses on the action of having an effect on something.

make its mark

Indicates leaving a lasting impression or achievement.

become evident

Emphasizes the process of becoming clear or obvious.

take hold

Implies gaining control or influence.

establish dominance

Suggests gaining a superior position.

manifest itself

Emphasizes the act of something becoming apparent or real.

FAQs

How can I use "assert itself" in a sentence?

Use "assert itself" to describe something gradually gaining recognition or influence. For example, "The team's talent began to "assert itself" as they gained more experience".

What are some alternatives to "assert itself"?

You can use alternatives like "establish its presence", "gain prominence", or "come to the fore" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "assert it" instead of "assert itself"?

While "assert it" might be grammatically correct in some contexts, it doesn't carry the same meaning as ""assert itself"", which specifically implies a reflexive action of gaining influence or recognition.

What is the difference between "assert itself" and "prove itself"?

"Assert itself" suggests a gradual gaining of influence or recognition, while "prove itself" implies demonstrating worth or ability through action or evidence.