ASSERT

[verb] [T] - to state (an opinion), claim (a right) or establish (authority) forcefullyIt is nonsense to assert that smoking does not damage people's health. [+ that clause]Throughout the Cold War, the Allies asserted their right to move freely between the two Berlins.Teachers should assert greater control over their pupils.If you assert yourself, you behave in a way which expresses your confidence, importance or power and earns you respect from others.Women assert themselves more nowadays and do not tolerate unfair treatment from men like they once did.