initiative

[ɪˈnɪʃətɪv]

initiative Definition

• 1. the ability to assess and initiate things independently
• 2. a new plan or process to achieve something or solve a problem

Using initiative: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "initiative" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  She took the initiative to start her own business.

• Example

  The company's initiative to reduce waste has been successful.

• Example

  The government launched an initiative to improve public transportation.

• Example

  He showed great initiative in solving the problem.

initiative Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for initiative

• enterprise
• ingenuity
• resourcefulness
• originality
• creativity

Antonyms for initiative

• apathy
• indolence

Idioms Using initiative

• on one's own initiative

  without being asked or prompted by someone else

  Example

  He started volunteering at the shelter on his own initiative.

• lack initiative

  to not be proactive or take action

  Example

  The employee was let go because he lacked initiative and didn't complete his tasks on time.

• political initiative

  a proposal or action taken by a politician or political party to address a particular issue

  Example

  The government's political initiative to reduce crime has been met with mixed reactions.

Phrases with initiative

• lose initiative

  to stop being proactive or taking action

  Example

  If we don't act now, we'll lose the initiative and the opportunity will be gone.

• take the initiative

  to be proactive and take action without being prompted

  Example

  She took the initiative to organize a fundraiser for the charity.

• seize the initiative

  to take control of a situation by being proactive and taking the first step

  Example

  The team seized the initiative and scored the first goal of the game.

Origins of initiative

from Latin 'initium', meaning 'beginning'

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Summary: initiative in Brief

The term 'initiative' [ɪˈnɪʃətɪv] refers to the ability to assess and initiate things independently, as well as a new plan or process to achieve something or solve a problem. It is exemplified by 'She took the initiative to start her own business.' 'Initiative' extends into phrases like 'take the initiative,' and idioms like 'on one's own initiative,' denoting proactivity. Its antonyms include 'apathy' and 'indolence.'