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initiative

By Grace Fleming, About.com

Definition:
  1. Ability and eagerness to proceed with a project or plan.
  2. A first step.
  3. The power to propose a statute or ordinance for a vote.
  4. Action taken without outside motivation.
Pronunciation: e-NISH-e-tiv
Examples:
She had the initiative to start a business while she was still in high school.

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