a burning ambition

USAGE SUMMARY

'a burning ambition' is correct and usable in written English.
It is an idiomatic expression typically used to describe a strong desire or goal. For example: "My burning ambition is to become a successful entrepreneur."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

We have a burning ambition".

The New York Times - Sports

Acting was never a burning ambition for Andre, neither was music.

The Guardian - Music

"I had a burning ambition to break through and be famous in England and America.

The Guardian

Elaine has a burning ambition; she just needs to honour her potential.

The Guardian

She was then 36, without a career but with what Mr Spitz calls "a burning ambition to do something useful".

The Economist

For Faria, as for Mourinho, that would not prevent him harbouring a burning ambition to work in the game.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

A Life may outlast many of the movies, for it is a portrait of burning ambition and a shameless dwelling on shame, arguing with itself over tactics, scalps and coups, and a long list of conquests.

The Guardian - Film

Call it a confluence of Marshall's burning ambition and a heroic dose of talent, but within a relatively short period of time, A&R guys began to circle him with recording contracts.

Huffington Post

Another meeting is due in a fortnight.In this section Manmohan Singh's burning ambition Going bang A game of chicken G'day Asia Still a prison Those in peril Reprints Related items India's economy: Arvind v ArvindJun 26th 2008So the government appears to have an uncomfortable choice.

The Economist

"For a person whose sole burning ambition is to write — like myself — college is useless beyond the sophomore year," William Styron wrote to his father in 1946, after returning from Platoon Commander School in Quantico, Va., to resume his studies at Duke.

The New York Times - Books

"You don't need a four-year college degree if you have burning ambition or a great plan".

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's motivation, consider using "a burning ambition" to illustrate their unwavering commitment and drive. This phrase is particularly effective when showcasing a character's internal desires and goals.

Common error

While "a burning ambition" is widely accepted, avoid overusing it in highly formal or technical writing. In such contexts, consider more neutral alternatives like "strong motivation" or "intense desire" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a burning ambition" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a strong and intense desire or goal. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

15%

Science

6%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a burning ambition" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a strong and intense desire or goal. Ludwig AI confirms its validity in written English. It's frequently found in news media and academic contexts, conveying a sense of passion and dedication. While generally versatile, it's best to consider more formal alternatives in highly technical or professional writing. The phrase's enduring presence in diverse sources underscores its effectiveness in expressing profound personal drives and aspirations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an intense desire

Replaces "burning ambition" with a more straightforward expression of strong longing.

a fervent aspiration

Substitutes "burning" and "ambition" with synonyms that emphasize passion and hope.

a strong yearning

Focuses on the emotional aspect of longing for something significant.

an overriding passion

Highlights the dominance of the desire over other interests.

a consuming hunger

Uses a metaphor of hunger to convey the intensity of the desire.

a powerful drive

Emphasizes the internal force pushing someone towards a goal.

a deep-seated longing

Highlights the depth and persistence of the desire.

an insatiable craving

Suggests that the desire is difficult or impossible to fully satisfy.

a compelling impulse

Focuses on the irresistible nature of the driving force.

a resolute determination

Switches the focus to the unwavering commitment to achieving a goal.

FAQs

How can I use "a burning ambition" in a sentence?

You can use "a burning ambition" to describe someone's strong desire or goal. For example, "Her "burning ambition" is to become a successful doctor."

What are some alternatives to "a burning ambition"?

Some alternatives include "intense desire", "strong yearning", or "overriding passion" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a burning ambition" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, consider the tone of your writing. In highly formal contexts, alternatives like "strong motivation" or "intense dedication" might be more suitable.

What does "a burning ambition" imply about a person's character?

It suggests that the person is highly motivated, dedicated, and passionate about achieving a particular goal. It implies a strong internal drive and commitment.