Meaning of initiative in English

1. Pronunciation

   /ɪˈnɪʃ(i)ədɪv/

   US accent

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   UK accent

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1. Classifying Adjective

   initiative

   Definitions

   1. serving to set in motion

   Examples

   • « the magazine's inaugural issue »
   • « the initiative phase in the negotiations »
   • « an initiatory step toward a treaty »
   • « his first (or maiden) speech in Congress »
   • « the liner's maiden voyage »

   Synonyms

   • opening

2. Noun

   initiative

   Etymology

   late 18th century: from French, from Latin initiare, from initium‘beginning’

   Definitions

   1. readiness to embark on bold new ventures
3. 2. the first of a series of actions

   Examples

   • « he memorized all the important chess openings »