assert
verb (used with object)
to state with assurance, confidence, or force; state strongly or positively; affirm; aver.
was asserting
-
past progressiveof assert.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
In taking legal action, the mayor was asserting his executive authority in labor-contract negotiations.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 29, 2026
Farmer Tom believed the peacock was asserting his dominance and despite the bird running riot on his land, he was able to capture it and get it safely in a pen.
From BBC ● Apr. 17, 2026
Mai Lindsey, a contractor who works on Sable’s leak detection system, said she found it “unfair” how the commission was asserting itself in their work.
From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 10, 2025
Collins’ comments left Republicans saying she was asserting an independence that Maine voters have long prized.
From Seattle Times ● Sep. 21, 2020
He put his hands on his hips and gave Kiyo a sternly comic look, squinting at him through one eye the way Papa would when he was asserting his authority.
From "Farewell to Manzanar" by Jeanne Houston
