assertive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "assertive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who expresses their opinions or needs confidently and firmly, often in a positive context. Example: "In negotiations, being assertive can help you communicate your needs effectively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Muslims today are in general more knowledgeable about their faith, more attuned to its demands, and more assertive about their identity.But which direction does this assertiveness take?

The Economist

"Our industry should be less aloof, more assertive.

The Guardian - Business

Warren gets (slightly) more assertive – with punctuation, at least – telling the Boston Globe: I am not running for president.

The Guardian

But... "Here, rather disobligingly, he sounded confident, assertive - even, at times, blokeish.

The Guardian

6/10 This is brewed in Memmingen in Bavaria, where lagers tend to be sweeter and maltier in the Munich helles style, and despite its piny aroma, it lacks the assertive dryness you expect in a pilsner.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The country has been increasingly assertive on the international stage, particularly during the Ukraine crisis, in which it has taken a firm stance against Russia.

The Guardian

In spring, the most assertive garden escapers are daffodils, dotted among the butterbur and ground elder leaves.

The Guardian

He also predicted the backbench would be much more assertive in putting its case on policy, saying "fairness in how we do things is going to be very important in framing the next budget" and transparency and consultation would be crucial ingredients.

The Guardian

Like me, Bird could be described as "challenging" – we're both assertive individuals and would rarely take shit from people, so not always the easiest people to work with.

The Guardian - Opinion

Even the wave is becoming more assertive, the hand moving from waist to head height.

The Guardian

They will shape a big dimension of Europe's future, including how it can deal with a more assertive Russia.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to convey confidence without aggressiveness, use "assertive" to strike a balance. Ensure the context supports a positive interpretation of self-assuredness.

Common error

Avoid using "assertive" when the situation requires sensitivity or diplomacy. Overusing it may come across as pushy or domineering. Instead, opt for terms like "confident" or "persuasive" to maintain a positive tone.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "assertive" primarily functions to describe a quality or characteristic of a person, action, or entity. It signifies a confident and self-assured demeanor or approach. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Formal & Business

16%

Science

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the adjective "assertive" is a grammatically sound and frequently used term to describe confidence and self-assuredness in a non-aggressive manner. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness. It appears predominantly in news and media, and is versatile enough for use across various registers, with its specific connotation shaped by context. Alternatives like "confident" and "self-assured" can be used for similar meanings. Understanding potential misinterpretations, such as confusion with "aggressive" behavior, is crucial for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

self-assured

Emphasizes confidence in one's own abilities or qualities.

confident

Highlights a belief in one's own powers or reliability.

self-assertive

Focuses on advocating for one's own needs and desires.

forceful

Suggests a strong and effective expression of oneself.

decisive

Implies the ability to make firm and clear decisions.

proactive

Highlights taking initiative and controlling a situation.

bold

Suggests a willingness to take risks and be daring in expression.

emphatic

Highlights the use of emphasis to express oneself strongly.

determined

Implies firmness of purpose and resolve.

insistent

Emphasizes persistence and demanding attention.

FAQs

How can I use "assertive" in a sentence?

You can use "assertive" to describe someone who confidently expresses their opinions, for example, "She adopted an assertive approach during the negotiation."

What is a good alternative to "assertive"?

Consider using alternatives like "confident", "self-assured", or "forceful" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When might "assertive" not be the best word choice?

"Assertive" might not be suitable if you want to emphasize gentleness or compromise. In those cases, consider using words like "diplomatic" or "considerate" instead.

What's the difference between "assertive" and "aggressive"?

"Assertive" implies confidence and clear communication without violating others' rights, whereas "aggressive" suggests a forceful and potentially hostile approach that disregards others' feelings or boundaries.