unassertive
1
6.2
- adjective
- /ˌʌnəˈsɜːrtɪv/
:
no asertivo
- Saint Bernard is being cautious—unassertive where the Holy Spirit has not lighted the way.
Examples
-
"The music he had been playing was quiet and unassertive.
Fiction book (2000) -
On the other hand, if he continues to be passive and unassertive as a result of self-doubt, he is not dynamic enough.
Academic text (1990) -
Alternatively, low scorers may be somewhat modest, unassertive, and not very strategic about their careers, tend to be quiet, careful about following procedures, and will not often disagree with superiors (Hogan & Hogan, 1996).
Academic text (2016) -
From the oversized newspaper headlines, you would never have guessed that the original research paper contained such unassertive language—although the authors probably could have predicted the media frenzy that followed.
Academic text (1998) -
Many unassertive individuals struggle to share their ideas in group discussions.
-
His unassertive behavior made it difficult for him to negotiate his salary.
-
During the meeting, she remained unassertive and didn't voice her concerns.
Synonyms
4
8.0
Shy and not confident about speaking or acting in front of others
1
4.2
Calm and gentle, not likely to attack or fight
1
3.9
Not likely to fight or act forcefully towards others
Someone who is not forceful and does not push opinions, often quiet and easy to work with
Not confident and acting unsure
A person who does not say opinions or feelings openly
Antonyms
How Assertive
62
4.3
42
4.2
715
2.5
1
6.2
111
3.9
38
5.1
Surface Forms
Morphology
Etymology
Unassertive is made of the prefix un- meaning 'not' and assertive, from assert meaning 'to say or state something firmly'. So, unassertive means 'not saying things firmly', which is why it describes someone who is quiet or not forceful when they speak.