Self-possessed
adj.calm, resilientformal
What it means
Calmly in command of one's feelings and behavior, especially under pressure.
Reach for it when praising composed presence without suggesting emotional coldness
The self-possessed witness asked for the question to be repeated before answering.
Choose between these
7- playful
when almost nothing seems able to disturb the person
not when Unflappable is stronger and may suggest unrealistic emotional invulnerability.
- everyday
collected
when a person regains orderly thought after disruption
not when Collected often describes a temporary state rather than a steady trait.
- warm
when calm confidence also appears graceful
not when Poise emphasizes presentation and may reward polish over honesty.
- warm
when dependable emotional balance matters
not when Steadiness may be quiet support without the alert command of self-possession.
- professional
when confidence is the feature others notice
not when Assurance can coexist with impulsive or poorly regulated behavior.
- professional
when outward calm during pressure is the observable quality
not when Composure may be brief and can conceal intense inner distress.
- literary
when evenness of mind amid changing fortune is exact
not when Equanimous is rare and more philosophical than social.
Said against
3- flustered
- agitated
- discomposed
It naturally appears in
3- self-possessed manner
Her self-possessed manner gave the frightened passengers confidence.
- remain self-possessed
He managed to remain self-possessed while the plan changed around him.
- calm and self-possessed
The advocate stayed calm and self-possessed through hostile questions.