Words / B1

i-NISH-uh-tiv/ɪˈnɪʃətɪv/

An initiative is a new plan, or the ability to start things without being told: a government initiative; take the initiative; show initiative. A plan is more general; a project is a piece of planned work. On your own initiative means without being asked. Initiative is uncountable for the personal quality and countable for a named scheme. Do not confuse it with initial (first) or initiation (a starting ceremony).

Meaning

A new plan, or the ability to start things without being told.

Examples

• “She showed initiative by organising the event.”
• “He acted on his own initiative and booked the hall.”
• “The city launched an initiative to plant more trees.”

Good to know

take / show initiative. a government initiative. on your own initiative. General: plan. Piece of work: project. Not initial.

Near in meaning

plan

New