Verbs

(v)assert, asseverate, maintainstate categorically
(v)affirm, verify, assert, avow, aver, swan, swearto declare or affirm solemnly and formally as true“Before God I swear I am innocent”
(v)assert, put forwardinsist on having one's opinions and rights recognized“Women should assert themselves more!”
(v)insist, assertpostulate positively and assertively“The letter asserts a free society”