# asserting

/əˈsɝtɪŋ/ (US) · /ɐsˈɜːtɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/asserting
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. stating clearly

verb · CEFR B2 · Academic

stating something with confidence so that people believe it is true.

For teachers: stating a fact or belief confidently and forcefully.

- The scientist is asserting that the new data proves her theory is correct.
- The lead researcher spent the afternoon asserting the validity of the findings despite the skepticism from the peer-review committee.

Usage: Often followed by a 'that' clause or a direct noun phrase.

### 2. using power or rights

verb · CEFR C1 · Formal

behaving in a way that shows you have power or that your rights must be respected.

For teachers: exercising or defending a right, power, or influence effectively.

- The king was asserting his authority over the rebellious lords.
- By asserting their legal rights in court, the community successfully blocked the construction of the industrial plant.

Usage: Commonly used with abstract nouns like 'authority', 'rights', or 'dominance'.

### 3. the act of stating

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal · Academic

the act of saying something strongly or making your power known.

For teachers: the action of making forceful statements or the exercise of influence.

- The constant asserting of his opinion made it hard for others to speak.
- The systematic asserting of executive privilege has created a significant tension between the two branches of government.

## Examples

- She is asserting her right to speak.
- The manager kept asserting that the project would finish on time despite the delays.
- By asserting his dominance in the early rounds, the boxer forced his opponent into a defensive posture for the remainder of the match.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.