less assertive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "less assertive" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It is used to describe someone who is not as confident or forceful in expressing their opinions or desires. Example: "She was known for being less assertive in meetings, often deferring to her more outspoken colleagues."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

For example, deaf patients may be less assertive or show inappropriate assertiveness when visiting a doctor.

European Journal of Pediatrics

This can lead to insecurity, and when these events structurally occur, it can also cause HI children to be less assertive than their hearing peers or to a misdirected assertiveness.

European Journal of Pediatrics

But they are less assertive.

The Guardian

A different, less assertive walk.

The Guardian

Corbyn's less assertive style is part of a new pattern.

Independent

But small producers in the south can be less assertive.

The New York Times

Monte's also delivers a welcome, less assertive creamy Dijon sauce.

The New York Times

He needs to be no less assertive if he becomes governor.

The New York Times

Were those decisions issued by a court less assertive than today's?

The New York Times

"As Chaplin became more powerful in life, Charlie became less assertive and more subservient.

Independent

Pamela Strother, president of the association, remembered it all as less assertive.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a change in someone's behavior, use "less assertive" to indicate a decrease in their forcefulness or directness, providing specific examples to illustrate the shift. For example, instead of simply saying "He became less assertive", explain how: "He became "less assertive", no longer dominating the conversation but listening more attentively to others".

Common error

Avoid using "less assertive" when you actually mean passive-aggressive. Being "less assertive" implies a genuine lack of forcefulness, while passive-aggressiveness involves expressing negative feelings indirectly. For example, a "less assertive" person might avoid conflict, while a passive-aggressive person might agree to a task but then subtly sabotage it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "less assertive" functions as an adjective modifier, describing a quality or characteristic of a person, action, or thing. As Ludwig AI explains, it indicates a diminished level of forcefulness or confidence. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in describing personality traits and behavioral changes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

29%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "less assertive" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a decrease in forcefulness or confidence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's frequently used across different contexts, particularly in news and media, and scientific domains. The term indicates a reduction in directness, which can be seen as either a positive or negative trait depending on the situation. When writing, be mindful of the potential for misinterpretation, especially confusing it with passivity or indirectness. Remember to provide context to fully illustrate the concept to your audience, making your use of language all the more vivid and accessible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more unassertive

Direct synonym, highlighting the lack of assertiveness.

more reserved

Focuses on a tendency to keep thoughts and feelings private.

more subdued

Emphasizes a quiet or restrained quality in behavior.

less aggressive

Highlights the absence of forceful or attacking behavior.

less forceful

Indicates a lack of strength or intensity in expression.

more mild-mannered

Stresses a gentle and unprovocative demeanor.

more hesitant

Focuses on reluctance or uncertainty in taking action or speaking up.

less confident

Emphasizes a lack of self-assurance.

more passive

Highlights a tendency to accept or allow what happens without active response.

more retiring

Implies a preference for avoiding attention or social interaction.

FAQs

How can I use "less assertive" in a sentence?

You can use "less assertive" to describe someone who does not express their opinions or needs strongly. For example: "After the training, she became "more assertive", whereas previously she had been "less assertive".

What are some alternatives to saying "less assertive"?

Some alternatives to "less assertive" include "more reserved", "more subdued", or "less forceful", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to be "less assertive" or "more assertive"?

Neither is inherently better; the ideal level of assertiveness depends on the situation and personal goals. Being "less assertive" might be preferable in situations where diplomacy is key, while being "more assertive" is crucial for advocating for one's needs.

What's the difference between being "less assertive" and being shy?

While both may involve a lack of outward expression, being shy stems from social anxiety or discomfort, while being "less assertive" is about a general approach to expressing opinions and needs, which may not involve feelings of anxiety.