Definition of confidencenext
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as in secret
information shared only with another or with a select few accused him of betraying an important confidence

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 As kind as that sentiment was, my confidence was cratered. Literary Hub, 18 May 2026 That confidence, however, is increasingly shaped by price. Sarah Allard, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 May 2026 Same complete confidence in the system. Mark Glende, Twin Cities, 18 May 2026 Trends change, culture evolves, but confidence and individuality never go out of style. Renan Botelho, Footwear News, 18 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for confidence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for confidence
Noun
  • But despite assurances that the impact on businesses has been minimized, some groups still worried that the AI bill — despite its sections on workforce development and increasing AI knowledge — will ultimately create new burdens for businesses that could hamper innovation efforts.
    P.R. Lockhart, Hartford Courant, 17 May 2026
  • The image was used only after receiving explicit assurance from the content partner that permission had been secured, including for the retail boxes.
    Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 16 May 2026
Noun
  • But in business, certainty rarely comes.
    Melissa Houston, Forbes.com, 18 May 2026
  • Still, this may be an election where some of the certainties of the two-party system are rewritten.
    Amy Davidson Sorkin, New Yorker, 17 May 2026
Noun
  • Cities should shift resources away from enforcement and toward permanent supportive housing, mental health care, and outreach services that build trust and stability.
    Shianne LeClaire, Hartford Courant, 17 May 2026
  • One trust would collect money from the church, parishes, schools and insurance settlements to compensate survivors, while the second trust would manage litigation and insurance claims against insurers that did not settle.
    Bridget Byrne, Baltimore Sun, 17 May 2026
Noun
  • Want to know my secret for staying comfortable on long travel days?
    Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 20 May 2026
  • His struggle intensifies when Tare, a rebellious motorcyclist and fellow alcoholic, discovers the pastor’s secret and seeks to use the car for his own dream.
    Christopher Vourlias, Variety, 19 May 2026
Noun
  • Weaving between Bon Iver features and electronic experimentation, the Minnesota musician and actor’s new album sounds a note of community and composure in a tumultuous world.
    Nia Coats, Pitchfork, 18 May 2026
  • Manor, meanwhile, kept his composure.
    Dan Zaksheske OutKick, FOXNews.com, 18 May 2026
Noun
  • Within months, customer satisfaction had fallen sharply and service quality had grown inconsistent.
    Rhett Power, Forbes.com, 17 May 2026
  • Seeing clients reorient themselves from uncertain to unstoppable is one of the most rewarding parts of her work, and this satisfaction continues to guide her momentum.
    Wyles Daniel, USA Today, 15 May 2026
Noun
  • Following that road—with as much patience as your faith allows—does.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 20 May 2026
  • While many faith institutions had to close because of the Palisades and Eaton fires, Kehillat Israel was uniquely positioned to be among the first to reopen.
    Rachel Kraus, Los Angeles Times, 20 May 2026
Noun
  • Even better when that power of recollection is amplified by imagination, an entomological fascination with the English language, and boundless self-confidence.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 13 May 2026
  • Reinforcing Gonzalez’s self-confidence is his propensity to thrive when runners are in scoring position.
    Steve Reaven, Chicago Tribune, 8 May 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Confidence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/confidence. Accessed 23 May. 2026.

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