self-assertion
Americannoun
noun
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of self-assertion
First recorded in 1795–1805
Explanation
A self-assertion is a boastful statement. "I am the greatest!" is a self-assertion. Self-assertion is great if you’re a boxer like Muhammad Ali, but usually annoying if you’re not. An assertion is an opinion like "The Yankees are the best." A self-assertion is a similar claim made about yourself. A low-level politician saying, "I will be President" is making a self-assertion. An athlete saying, "I will win the championship" is making a self-assertion. Self-assertions tend to be a little inconsiderate and arrogant, because self-assertions are usually a form of bragging. Someone who really feels confident probably wouldn't need to make a lot of self-assertions.
Vocabulary lists containing self-assertion
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
What we ordinarily call courage involves self assertion but a higher courage is involved in refraining from certain things.
From The Journal of Abnormal Psychology, Volume 10 by Various
Something within me was struggling for self assertion.
From Daisy by Warner, Susan
If that is a little piece of self assertion," said Mr. Linden, "allow me respectfully to remark that my 'impression' had no reference to the present time.
From Say and Seal, Volume II by Warner, Susan
His mind was restless, audacious, swift; his self assertion was immense; his thoughts came in floods; his literary style was admirable for freshness, terseness and vigor.
From Transcendentalism in New England A History by Frothingham, Octavius Brooks
Their self assertion prompted them, and their intelligence enabled them, to take active part in public affairs.
From Studies in Civics by McCleary, J. T. (James Thompson)
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
