aiming for gold

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "aiming for gold" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is striving to achieve a top goal or the highest level of success, often in competitive situations. Example: "In the upcoming Olympics, our athletes are aiming for gold in their respective events."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

Gold Form guide Sally Pearson is in scintillating form and will be aiming for gold in the 100m hurdles.

The Guardian - Sport

We came here aiming for gold and that is why everyone was so upset at the end of the match.

Independent

Michael Phelps is aiming for gold in tonight's 200m butterfly final even though he has not yet won a medal during the London 2012 Olympics.

Independent

The European champion, who is coached by Colin Jackson's former mentor, Malcolm Arnold, is confident enough to state that he is aiming for gold at the world championships in Daegu, South Korea.

The Guardian - Sport

Newcrest said it was aiming for gold production of 2 million to 2.3 million ounces in the coming financial year, an increase of 4 percent, based on the middle of the range.

The New York Times

Medal Prospects: Should get at least silver but will be aiming for gold The team first came together in 2010 and have since won National, European and World Championship titles.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

He aimed for gold last year but just missed out.

The Guardian

After all, why settle for silver, when you can aim for gold?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A tearful Efimova – roundly booed as so many Russian competitors have been this year – said she'd aim for gold next time.

The Guardian - Sport

He says he will be happy just to make the podium in the 100m, but will aim for gold medals 200m and 400m.

The Guardian - Sport

More contentiously, Locog has decided to charge £15 for tickets to Box Hill for the main climb on the cycling road race, a major highlight of the opening weekend as Mark Cavendish aims for gold.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "aiming for gold", ensure the context clearly defines the specific event or competition where the gold is the ultimate goal. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "aiming for gold" in situations where the goal isn't a clearly defined top prize in a competition. Using it for general aspirations can sound hyperbolic or unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "aiming for gold" functions primarily as a verb phrase that describes someone's intention or objective. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Sport

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "aiming for gold" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that signifies striving for the highest achievement. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is effectively used across various contexts, predominantly in news, sports, and formal business settings. The phrase conveys ambition and determination and carries a neutral tone, making it suitable for diverse audiences. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly specifies the competitive environment. Alternatives such as "striving for gold" and "pursuing the gold" can offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

striving for gold

Implies a continuous effort to achieve the highest honor.

competing for gold

Highlights the competitive aspect of trying to win.

seeking the gold medal

More formal and emphasizes the specific prize.

pursuing the gold

Similar to 'striving', but with a sense of chasing a goal.

targeting gold

Suggests a focused and strategic approach.

gunning for gold

More aggressive and informal, implying strong determination.

going for the gold

Common and straightforward, indicating an attempt to win.

dreaming of gold

Emphasizes the aspiration and hope associated with winning.

eyeing the gold

Implies careful consideration and a strong desire to obtain the gold.

hoping for gold

Focuses on the desire and anticipation of winning.

FAQs

What does it mean to say someone is "aiming for gold"?

When someone is "aiming for gold", it means they are striving to achieve the highest level of success or win first place in a competition or endeavor.

How can I use "aiming for gold" in a sentence?

You can use "aiming for gold" to describe someone's ambition and dedication to winning. For example: "The athlete is training hard, "aiming for gold" at the Olympics."

What are some alternative ways to express the idea of "aiming for gold"?

You can use alternatives like "striving for victory", "pursuing the gold", or "competing for gold" to convey a similar meaning.

Is "aiming for gold" only used in sports contexts?

While often used in sports, "aiming for gold" can apply to any field where there's a clear hierarchy and a top prize. It can describe efforts in business, academics, or other competitive areas.