seizes the initiative
Takes decisive control
To seize the initiative is to act first and establish control before others can respond.
The phrase implies taking decisive action rather than waiting or reacting: She seized the initiative and proposed the merger before competitors could.
In military contexts, seizing the initiative means forcing the enemy into a defensive posture.
More broadly, it suggests gaining advantage through boldness or timing.
- preemptionActing to prevent another's action
- first strikeInitiating combat unprovoked
- planningArranging for future events
- takes chargeBegins directing others
- assertivenessConfident self-expression quality
bold move · decisiveness · ambition · proactivity · dominance · power play · first-mover · maneuvering · determination · focus · edge · foresight · timing · gets ahead · momentum · courage · adaptability · offensive
seizes the initiativesits on one's hands
Refrains from acting
takes a back seat · sits back · goes with the flow · drifts · bides one's time
seizes the initiativesubmits
Yields to authority
capitulates · acquiesces · takes orders · passes the buck · kowtows
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