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Literary notes about APLOMB (AI summary)

Writers use "aplomb" to convey a sense of effortless poise and self-assurance in both dramatic and everyday situations. The term is often employed to illustrate characters’ natural ease or the remarkable restoration of their composure in challenging circumstances—illustrated when a character, after initial bewilderment, regains his self-confidence with a burst of laughter [1] or swiftly returns to a state of calm clarity [2]. In other instances, "aplomb" highlights an ingrained grace that defines social stature or playful refinement, as seen when someone conducts themselves with a poised authority or recovers from minor setbacks with renewed vigor [3][4]. Additionally, the word can carry a subtle ironic tint when used to critique an affected or overblown elegance [5][6]. Overall, its use enriches narrative characterizations by imbuing figures with a dignified balance and assured presence that resonates through both physical and social realms [7][8].
  1. Loiseau, nonplussed at first, soon regained his aplomb and burst into a roar of laughter.
    — from The Works of Guy de Maupassant, Vol. 1 Boule de Suif and Other Stories by Guy de Maupassant
  2. Suddenly, as if by magic, his aplomb returned, and in a flash of understanding he perceived the situation.
    — from Coniston — Volume 03 by Winston Churchill
  3. He recovered his hat, and with it some of his former aplomb.
    — from Why Joan? by Eleanor Mercein Kelly
  4. For a few seconds he was utterly bereft of his usual aplomb.
    — from Rayton: A Backwoods Mystery by Theodore Goodridge Roberts
  5. His Royal Highness has no tact—no aplomb : he sets all against him by his lordly ways.
    — from Oddsfish! by Robert Hugh Benson
  6. He is too well-bred and too cultivated, he has too much aplomb .
    — from French Art: Classic and Contemporary Painting and Sculpture by W. C. (William Crary) Brownell
  7. He has an aplomb , an ease, a verve arising from his security that whatever he says will interest and amuse.
    — from Correspondence & Conversations of Alexis de Tocqueville with Nassau William Senior from 1834 to 1859, Volume 2 by Nassau William Senior
  8. His charm is infinite; his manners are of a delicacy and an aplomb.
    — from Plum Pudding: Of Divers Ingredients, Discreetly Blended & Seasoned by Christopher Morley

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