assertive
/ə'sə:tiv/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: 1. Confidently self-assured; expressing opinions or desires in a direct and forceful way: Describes a person or behavior that is not hesitant or timid, but rather speaks and acts with confidence and conviction. 2. Characterized by bold or confident assertion: Describes actions, statements, or manners that clearly and firmly state a position or belief.
Usage
The word "assertive" describes a positive, confident communication style. It is often contrasted with being "passive" (not expressing one's needs) or "aggressive" (expressing needs in a hostile way that violates others' rights). Being assertive is generally considered a desirable trait in professional and personal contexts for clear communication.
Examples
- Describing a person:
- She became more assertive after the leadership training.
- An assertive manager can effectively delegate tasks and set clear expectations.
- Describing behavior or manner:
- He answered the question in an assertive tone.
- Making direct eye contact is often seen as assertive behavior.
Advanced Usage
- "to be assertive about something": To state one's position or needs clearly and firmly regarding a specific matter.
- You need to be assertive about your boundaries at work.
- Comparative and Superlative Forms: "more assertive", "most assertive". The form "assertiver" is rarely used.
- Of the two candidates, she was the more assertive speaker.
- In the meeting, he was the most assertive voice advocating for change.
Variants and Related Words
- Assert (verb): To state a fact or belief confidently and forcefully.
- He asserted his innocence throughout the trial.
- Assertion (noun): A confident and forceful statement of fact or belief.
- She made the assertion that the project was behind schedule.
- Assertively (adverb): In a confidently forceful or self-assured manner.
- She assertively presented her proposal to the committee.
- Assertiveness (noun): The quality of being self-assured and confident without being aggressive.
- The course aims to build your assertiveness in negotiations.
Synonyms
- Confident
- Forceful
- Decisive
- Self-assured
- Authoritative (can imply more formal power)
Antonyms
- Passive
- Submissive
- Timid
- Hesitant
- Retiring
Idioms and Common Phrases
- To assert oneself: To behave or speak in a confident and forceful manner so that other people notice you.
- In a competitive workplace, it is important to assert yourself.
- Assertive communication: A specific style of communication that involves clearly expressing one's thoughts, feelings, and needs while respecting the rights of others.
- The therapist taught them techniques for assertive communication.
Adjective
- aggressively self-assured
- an energetic assertive boy who was always ready to argue
- pointing directly at a listener is an assertive act