Which adverb implies supreme confidence, falling just shy of arrogance?
When he participated in debates and round table discussions, Christopher Hitchens spoke with supreme confidence.
I'd like to replace with supreme confidence with an adverb that implies supreme confidence, falling just shy of arrogance.
Does anyone have any suggestions?
Solution 1:
I'd go with:
commandingly
boldly
brilliantly
Solution 2:
How about eloquence, aplomb, or poise?
eloquence
1: discourse marked by force and persuasiveness; also : the art or power of using such discourse
2: the quality of forceful or persuasive expressiveness
aplomb
: complete and confident composure or self-assurance
poise
a : easy self-possessed assurance of manner
...Christopher Hitchens spoke with (eloquence, aplomb, poise).
... Christopher Hitchens spoke with marked (eloquence, aplomb, poise).
Solution 3:
Consider:
- dauntlessly
- self-assuredly
- intrepidly
- determinedly
- purposefully
- drivingly
- decisively
- firmly
- assuredly
- enthusiastically
- aggressively
- fervently
- persistently
- unremittingly
- zealously
- ardently
- animatedly
But I like the prepositional phrase just fine, and don’t see any real need to replace it with a single-word adverb.
Solution 4:
I would suggest imperiously.
Imperious is defined as:
a : befitting or characteristic of one of eminent rank or attainments : commanding, dominant
A second meaning is:
b : marked by arrogant assurance : domineering
This word weems to be on the border of what OP is seeking.