initiative

pronunciation

How to pronounce initiative in British English: UK [ɪˈnɪʃətɪv] word uk audio image

How to pronounce initiative in American English: US [ɪˈnɪʃətɪv] word us audio image

Noun:

readiness to embark on bold new ventures
the first of a series of actions
Adjective:

serving to set in motion

Word Origin

initiative (n.): 1793, "that which begins," also "power of initiating," from French initiative (1560s), from Latin initiatus (see initiation). First attested in English in writings of William Godwin. Phrase take the initiative recorded by 1844.

Synonym

n.

enterprise energy aggressiveness dash vim resourcefulness drive ambitiousness verve hustle ambition push

n.

step move commencement kickoff beginning first lead onset outset start

Example

1. Among those declining to join the initiative was campbell .

2. His task in 2010 : regain the political initiative .

3. Strategic initiative is a vital but neglected concept in foreign policy .

4. Automakers were cautious in their responses to the chinese initiative .

5. In the coming weeks , the romney campaign says , it will have several opportunities to retake the initiative .

more: >How to Use "initiative" with Example Sentences