assert
uh-SURT
Assert (verb) means to state something firmly and confidently, as if it were beyond doubt. Example: “She asserted that the report was completely accurate.”
verb
1
To state something firmly and confidently, as if it were beyond doubt.
"She asserted that the report was completely accurate."
"He asserts his innocence to this day."
"The coach asserted that his players had trained harder than ever before."
2
To insist on a right, claim, or opinion, refusing to be ignored or overridden.
"The union asserted its right to negotiate directly with management."
"Don't be afraid to assert yourself when people talk over you in meetings."
"The tenants asserted their right to a safe, warm home."
How to use assert
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo say something firmly, or to stand up for a right or claim.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
assert oneself
assert a claim
assert authority
boldly assert
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Word forms
- Plural
- asserts
- Third person singular
- asserts
- Past tense
- asserted
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She _____ that the report was completely accurate.
Etymology
From Latin assertus, past participle of asserere ("to claim, declare"), from ad- ("to") plus serere ("to join, arrange in a row").
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “assert” mean?
The word “assert” means to state something firmly and confidently, as if it were beyond doubt. In plain terms, to say something firmly, or to stand up for a right or claim.
How do you pronounce “assert”?
“Assert” is pronounced uh-SURT (/əˈsɝt/ in IPA).
How do you use “assert” in a sentence?
Here is “assert” used in a sentence: “She asserted that the report was completely accurate.”
What is the opposite of “assert”?
The opposite of “assert” — its antonyms — are remit, deny and deassert.
What part of speech is “assert”?
“Assert” is a verb.
Where does the word “assert” come from?
The word “assert” comes from Latin. From Latin assertus, past participle of asserere ("to claim, declare"), from ad- ("to") plus serere ("to join, arrange in a row").
Is “assert” a common word?
“Assert” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “assert” have?
“Assert” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to state something firmly and confidently, as if it were beyond doubt.
What is the difference between assert and claim?
Assert means to state something firmly and confidently as if it were beyond doubt, while claim can suggest more uncertainty or that the statement is disputed. Assert carries a stronger tone of conviction than claim.
What is the difference between assert and assert oneself?
To assert something means to state it firmly and confidently, while to assert oneself means to insist on a right, claim, or opinion and refuse to be ignored or overridden. The second sense focuses on standing up for oneself rather than simply making a statement.
When should you use assert instead of say?
Assert should be used when the statement is made with particular firmness and confidence, as if it were beyond doubt, rather than a neutral or tentative remark. Say is a more general, neutral word for speaking, while assert implies conviction.
