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Synonym Chooser

How is the word aplomb distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of aplomb are assurance, confidence, and self-possession. While all these words mean "a state of mind or a manner marked by easy coolness and freedom from uncertainty, diffidence, or embarrassment," aplomb implies a manifest self-possession in trying or challenging situations.

handled the reporters with great aplomb

In what contexts can assurance take the place of aplomb?

The words assurance and aplomb are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, assurance carries a stronger implication of certainty and may suggest arrogance or lack of objectivity in assessing one's own powers.

handled the cross-examination with complete assurance

When could confidence be used to replace aplomb?

The words confidence and aplomb can be used in similar contexts, but confidence stresses faith in oneself and one's powers without any suggestion of conceit or arrogance.

the confidence that comes from long experience

When would self-possession be a good substitute for aplomb?

While the synonyms self-possession and aplomb are close in meaning, self-possession implies an ease or coolness under stress that reflects perfect self-control and command of one's powers.

answered the insolent question with complete self-possession

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of aplomb As the industry grew and changed, Frommer endured and adapted, speaking with the aplomb of a litigator and the enthusiasm of a newbie, yet also the skepticism of one who has seen plenty. Christopher Reynolds, Los Angeles Times, 20 Nov. 2024 The car's six-piston front and four-piston rear brakes slow the car with aplomb. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 12 Dec. 2024 The versatile, always-all-in Mars is a worthy lodestar for Rosé and Rosie, an album that whirls through 21st-century pop idioms with aplomb even as its heroine ruminates on heartache and anxiety. Maura Johnston, Rolling Stone, 6 Dec. 2024 Leave it to Victoria Beckham to do so with the utmost elegance and aplomb. Nuria Luis, Vogue, 5 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for aplomb 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aplomb
Noun
  • That kind of composure amid the intensity spreads calm.
    Laurie Whitwell, The Athletic, 5 Jan. 2025
  • Cara starts to panic, thrashing around, while Tori, who is also struggling on the inside, is able to better maintain her composure, hoping that the illusion of strength will expedite Cara’s demise.
    Emma Sharpe, Vulture, 18 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • Los Angeles’ young defense has a ton of confidence after a dominating, record-tying performance against the Vikings.
    Mark Ross, The Athletic, 19 Jan. 2025
  • The only way is to give some confidence to the players is to win games.
    Sam Pilger, Forbes, 19 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • But Kavanaugh said tech companies that offer TikTok in their app stores would likely need assurances that they would not be prosecuted by the Justice Department if the platform was still available given that decision.
    Caitlin Yilek, CBS News, 10 Jan. 2025
  • Advertisement Zelensky said earlier Wednesday that countries wanting to end the war should offer Ukraine assurances about its future defense.
    Illia Novikov, Los Angeles Times, 8 Jan. 2025
Noun
  • Presenting the game sequences with just enough self-assurance and confident style to avert attention from any technical limitations, the co-directors sell the digital environment as a compelling backdrop and its own theatrical presence.
    Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 10 Jan. 2025
  • At the end of the day, what is the most important is Moana’s self-assurance in her main character energy.
    Melissah Yang, refinery29.com, 4 Dec. 2024

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Thesaurus Entries Near aplomb

Cite this Entry

“Aplomb.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aplomb. Accessed 22 Jan. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on aplomb

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