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assert

/əˈsɜːrt/  ·  say it: uh·SURT

to state firmly and confidently

In Debate & Persuasion

In more detail

1. (verb) to state something as a fact, especially with confidence

2. (verb) to insist on your rights or claim something for yourself

Examples

• 1. The scientist asserted that the theory was correct.
• 2. She asserted her right to speak at the meeting.

How to use assert

Assert is used when making a confident statement of fact or when firmly claiming something that belongs to you or is your due. It carries more force and conviction than merely saying or stating. In the first sense, it often appears in formal or written contexts; in the second sense (assert oneself, assert rights), it emphasizes active self-advocacy or the claiming of power or position.

Common phrases

• assert oneself
• assert authority
• assert a right
• assert dominance
• assert independence
• firmly assert

Synonyms

declare · state · claim · maintain · avow

Opposites

deny · retract · disclaim

Word family

assertion (noun) · assertive (adjective) · assertively (adverb) · assertiveness (noun)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse assert with insist; assert means to state or claim something, while insist means to demand something or say it repeatedly. Also, assert is active and deliberate, whereas simply speaking or saying requires no such force.

Nearby in Debate & Persuasion

contend, refute, rebut

Keep going

How to remember the words you read · Spaced repetition, explained