Synonyms for

Initiative

Verb / ˌɪˈnɪʃʌtɪv / / ˌɪˈnɪʃjʌtɪv / Another word for initiative — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Initiative means taking the first step to do something or starting something new.

Synonyms & similar words

first openingmove goahead opening initiatory firststep maiden enterprisingness enterprise inaugural enterprise drive ambition motivation leadership ingenuity originality inventiveness resourcefulness creativity ingenuity enterprise resourcefulness imagination ingenuity ingenuity creativity enterprise ingenuity resourcefulness

Synonyms by register

Formal

enterprise proactiveness resourcefulness drive

Informal

get-up-and-go oomph spunk gumption

Literary

ardor zeal impetus

Antonyms

apathy laziness indifference passivity inertia sluggishness

Common collocations

  • take the initiative
  • show initiative
  • lack initiative
  • new initiative
  • government initiative
  • business initiative
  • bold initiative
  • creative initiative

Word family

noun initiative
verb initiate
adjective initiatory
adverb initially

Usage note

Often used to describe the ability to start things or take action without being told. Can refer to a specific plan or project, especially one launched by an organization or government.

Example sentences

  1. John took the initiative to clean up the playground.
  2. The new employee showed initiative by suggesting an idea to improve the company's sales.
  3. She took the initiative to organize a fundraiser for the local animal shelter.
  4. The government is taking initiative to reduce pollution in the city.
  5. The teacher encouraged her students to show initiative in their school projects.

Quotes

  • "Taking initiative pays off. It is hard to visualize someone as a leader if he or she is always waiting to be told what to do." - Sheryl Sandberg
  • "Initiative is key. Anybody who wants to be somebody is going to work as hard as they can to fulfill that dream." - Kevin Hart
  • "Initiative is doing the right things without being told." - Elbert Hubbard

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