Initiative — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun adjective /i-ˈni-shə-tiv/ ini·tia·tive

Meaning & Definition of Initiative

Initiative (noun)

  1. an introductory step
  2. energy or aptitude displayed in initiation of action, enterprise
  3. the right to initiate legislative action

Initiative (adjective)

  1. of or relating to initiation, introductory, preliminary

Initiative (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. readiness to engage in daring or difficult activity

    "the sentry showed remarkable initiative and uncommon bravery in foiling the terrorist attack"

    similar: action, aggressiveness, ambition, drive, enterprise, go, hustle
    related: grit, gumption, pluck, snap, spirit, spunk, starch, ambitiousness, killer instinct, overambitiousness, assertiveness, self-reliance, energy, hardihood, pep, vigor, vitality
    near: inactivity, inertia, passivity, diffidence, faintheartedness, timidity, hesitation, reluctance, indolence, laziness, lethargy

Related Entry: On one's own initiative (phrase)

On one's own initiative is a different word from Initiative. The synonyms below are for on one's own initiative, not for initiative.

  1. without aid or support

    "She began writing her dissertation on her own initiative prior to entering grad school."

    similar: alone, independently, single-handed, single-handedly, singly, solely, unaided, unassisted, by one's own bootstraps, on one's own, on one's own hook
    related: individually, separately, solo
    near: collectively, conjointly, cooperatively, hand in glove, hand in hand, jointly, mutually, together, en masse

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Initiative

The most common words with a similar meaning to Initiative:

action, aggressiveness, ambition, drive, enterprise, go, hustle

Related Words for Initiative

grit, gumption, pluck, snap, spirit, spunk, starch, ambitiousness, killer instinct, overambitiousness, assertiveness, self-reliance, energy, hardihood, pep, vigor, vitality

Near Antonyms of Initiative

inactivity, inertia, passivity, diffidence, faintheartedness, timidity, hesitation, reluctance, indolence, laziness, lethargy

Origin & Etymology of Initiative

First known use: 1793

Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Initiative

Words & Phrases Containing Initiative

on one's own initiative, the initiative

Frequently Asked Questions about Initiative

What does "Initiative" mean?

"Initiative" means an introductory step. As an a noun and an adjective, it is defined as: an introductory step.

What is another word for "Initiative"?

Other words for "Initiative" include action, aggressiveness, ambition, drive, enterprise, go and hustle. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Initiative" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Initiative"?

There are 24 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Initiative". Common alternatives include action, aggressiveness, ambition, drive, enterprise, go and hustle.

How do you use "Initiative" in a sentence?

Examples of "Initiative" in a sentence: "the sentry showed remarkable initiative and uncommon bravery in foiling the terrorist attack".

Is "Initiative" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Initiative" can be used as a noun and an adjective, depending on the context.

Is "Initiative" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?

As a B2-level word, "Initiative" is typical of Cambridge B2 First (FCE), IELTS band 5.5–6.5, TOEFL iBT 72–94, PTE Academic 59–75, TOEIC Listening & Reading 785+.

How do you pronounce "Initiative"?

"Initiative" is pronounced /i-ˈni-shə-tiv/ and divided into syllables as ini·tia·tive.

What is the origin of the word "Initiative"?

First known use: 1793.