Pronunciation: [ɐsˈɜːtɪvli] (IPA) 
The word "assertively" is spelled phonetically as /əˈsɜːrtɪvli/. The first syllable "as-" is pronounced as /ə/ with schwa sound followed by /s/ and syllabic /ɜːr/. The second syllable "-sert-" is pronounced as /sɜːrt/ with /s/ and syllabic /ɜːr/. The last syllable "-ive-" is pronounced as /ɪv/ with short /ɪ/ and /v/. The suffix "-ly" is pronounced as /li/ with a short /i/. This word means to confidently and firmly state something.
Assertively is an adverb that refers to the manner in which someone behaves or communicates in a confident and self-assured way, while also demonstrating respect for others. When someone behaves assertively, they express their thoughts, opinions, and needs clearly and directly, without being overly aggressive or passive. It involves expressing oneself with confidence, ensuring that one's voice is heard, while still maintaining a tactful and calm demeanor.
In an assertive manner, individuals strive to establish and communicate boundaries, while respecting the rights and perspectives of others. They are able to state their desires, needs, and opinions without feeling the need to overpower or belittle others. Assertive communication typically involves using "I" statements, expressing feelings and thoughts with openness, and actively listening to others.
Assertiveness is often considered a valuable communication skill as it encourages effective and clear expression of ideas and opinions, leading to healthy and respectful interactions. It allows individuals to confidently express disagreement or displeasure, negotiate and compromise, and assert their rights in a respectful manner.
Assertiveness is distinguished from aggressiveness, which involves forcefulness, dominance, and a disregard for the feelings and opinions of others. It is also distinct from passivity or submissiveness, which involves avoiding confrontation and suppressing one's own needs and opinions. Assertive behavior aims to strike a balanced and respectful approach in communication and interaction with others.
The word "assertively" is derived from the base word "assertive", which comes from the Latin word "assertus" (past participle of "asserere"), meaning "to claim, maintain". The Latin word "asserere" is a combination of "ad-" (to) and "serere" (to join, tie, or gather). It later evolved in meaning to "to maintain or insist on a claim". In English, "assertive" originally appeared in the early 17th century with the sense of "insisting on one's rights or claims". From this, the adverb "assertively" was formed to describe actions or behaviors carried out with assertiveness.
