reassurance

Everyday

1. Words or actions that make someone feel less worried or afraid. tree →
2. A promise or statement that something is true or safe, given to calm someone. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life, children often need reassurance before tests, visits to the doctor or the first day at a new school; a hug or kind words give reassurance. In safety lessons, it is fine to ask a trusted adult for reassurance when something online is scary. In stories, a character looking for reassurance is nervous, and the one giving it is kind and steady. Phrases: give reassurance, need reassurance, look for reassurance, words of reassurance.

Examples

• I needed some reassurance before my swimming test. tree →
• Dad squeezed my hand for reassurance. tree →
• The nurse gave us reassurance that the injection would be quick. tree →
• She looked at her teacher for reassurance. tree →
• The pilot's calm voice was a reassurance to the passengers. tree →
• A few words of reassurance helped him stop crying. tree →
• We got reassurance that the bridge was safe. tree →

Note

Mostly uncountable: "some reassurance", but "a reassurance" is possible. From the verb "reassure" (make someone feel less worried). Spelling: re-assur-ance, double s.