APLOMB Synonyms: 108 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

aplomb

noun

ə-ˈpläm

Definition of aplomb next

as in composure

evenness of emotions or temper you've handled a difficult situation with perfect aplomb

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in confidence

great faith in oneself or one's abilities carried herself with the dignity and aplomb of a born leader

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

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 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

Then Wood and Ross Colton completely lost their composure after Nils Höglander drew an obvious penalty on Colton against the grain late in the third period.

— Thomas Drance, The Athletic, 5 Feb. 2025
But the main reason scientists believe people should keep their composure is because there is a good chance 2024 YR4 will be reclassified down to Level 0 when observed in the future, the same outcome for 2004 VD17 and 99942 Apophis.

— Jack Knudson, Discover Magazine, 31 Jan. 2025