CONFIDENCE Synonyms: 124 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'confidence' distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of confidence are aplomb , assurance , 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," confidence stresses faith in oneself and one's powers without any suggestion of conceit or arrogance. // the confidence that comes from long experience

Q: In what contexts can 'aplomb' take the place of 'confidence'?

While in some cases nearly identical to confidence , aplomb implies a manifest self-possession in trying or challenging situations. // handled the reporters with great aplomb

Q: When could 'assurance' be used to replace 'confidence'?

The words assurance and confidence 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

Q: When might 'self-possession' be a better fit than 'confidence'?

The words self-possession and confidence can be used in similar contexts, but 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

confidence

noun

ˈkän-fə-dən(t)s

Definition of confidence next

as in assurance

great faith in oneself or one's abilities a lifelong confidence that enabled her to achieve great things despite powerful obstacles

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Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in certainty

a state of mind in which one is free from doubt the confidence with which the game show contestant answered every question

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as in trust

firm belief in the integrity, ability, effectiveness, or genuineness of someone or something as players, we have complete confidence in our coach

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as in secret

information shared only with another or with a select few accused him of betraying an important confidence

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open secret

Synonym Chooser

How is the word confidence distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of confidence are aplomb, assurance, 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," confidence stresses faith in oneself and one's powers without any suggestion of conceit or arrogance.

the confidence that comes from long experience

In what contexts can aplomb take the place of confidence?

While in some cases nearly identical to confidence, aplomb implies a manifest self-possession in trying or challenging situations.

handled the reporters with great aplomb

When could assurance be used to replace confidence?

The words assurance and confidence 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 might self-possession be a better fit than confidence?

The words self-possession and confidence can be used in similar contexts, but 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

Example 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 confidence But Trump’s ominous message also threatened to undermine Israeli officials’ confidence that the U.S. would always have their back. —

Timothy Nerozzi, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 18 Jan. 2025 Agyemang said before the game that Pochettino made the newcomers feel comfortable and injected them with confidence. —

Michelle Kaufman, Miami Herald, 18 Jan. 2025 That’s not breaking any confidences, he’s spoken about it himself, but that was the hardest thing. —

Lily Ford, The Hollywood Reporter, 17 Jan. 2025 Nevertheless, the new funding from investors signals confidence that Stoke is making credible technical progress on its vehicle development. —

Ars Technica, 17 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for confidence

Recent Examples of Synonyms for confidence

Noun

Branthwaite initially struggled in the Netherlands and Everton came close to recalling him before receiving assurances opportunities would come.

— The Athletic UK Staff, The Athletic, 24 Jan. 2025
Spencer’s estate and Brown are asking the court to deny the mall’s sale or delay the sale until there are assurances creditors will be able to recover their claims.

— Catherine Muccigrosso, Charlotte Observer, 22 Jan. 2025