Words / C2

uh-PLOM/əˈplɒm/

Aplomb is calm, confident self-possession in a tight spot: with aplomb, handle it with aplomb. Composure (already in the dictionary) is a close cousin; confidence is everyday and wider. A plum is fruit — a lookalike. Do not award aplomb for ignoring a fire alarm.

Meaning

Confident, calm self-possession, especially in a difficult situation.

Examples

• “She handled the hostile question with aplomb and a date.”
• “She met the hostile question with aplomb and a date, not a slogan.”
• “Composure is calm; aplomb adds a touch of style under pressure. Confidence can still be loud. Plumb (plumbing / “exactly”) is another lookalike. Reckless calm is not aplomb.”

Good to know

Cool composure under pressure. Close: composure. Everyday: confidence (wider). Mix-ups: plum; plumb. Not ignoring an alarm.

Near in meaning

composure

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