Translate initiative | into French | into German | into Italian | into Spanish Definition of initiative
noun
1the ability to assess and initiate things independently:use your initiative, imagination, and common sense
2 [in singular] the power or opportunity to act or take charge before others do:we have lost the initiative and allowed our opponents to dictate the subject
3an act or strategy intended to resolve a difficulty or improve a situation; a fresh approach to something:a new initiative against car crime a proposal made by one nation to another in an attempt to improve relations:diplomatic initiatives to end the war a peace initiative aimed at reducing tensions
4 (
the initiative)
(especially in some US states and Switzerland) the right of citizens outside the legislature to originate legislation.
