Antonyms of adj self-assertive

2 senses of self-assertive

Sense 1
assertive (vs. unassertive), self-asserting, self-assertive -- (aggressively self-assured; "an energetic assertive boy who was always ready to argue"; "pointing directly at a listener is an assertive act")


Sense 2
bumptious, self-assertive -- (offensively self-assertive)

INDIRECT (VIA forward) -> backward -- ((used of temperament or behavior) marked by a retiring nature; "a backward lover")

Similarity of adj self-assertive

2 senses of self-assertive

Sense 1
assertive (vs. unassertive), self-asserting, self-assertive -- (aggressively self-assured; "an energetic assertive boy who was always ready to argue"; "pointing directly at a listener is an assertive act")
       => cocky -- (overly self-confident or self-assertive; "a very cocky young man")
       => emphatic, forceful -- (forceful and definite in expression or action; "the document contained a particularly emphatic guarantee of religious liberty")
          Also See-> aggressive#1; imperative#1

Sense 2
bumptious, self-assertive -- (offensively self-assertive)
       => forward (vs. backward) -- (used of temperament or behavior; lacking restraint or modesty; "a forward child badly in need of discipline")