Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
are to strive for
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "are to strive for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing goals or aspirations that one is expected to pursue or achieve. Example: "In our organization, we are to strive for excellence in all our projects to ensure client satisfaction."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Alternative expressions(4)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
1 human-written examples
"We have to create a true culture of success and respect in our schools if our children are to strive for their full potential," he said.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
59 human-written examples
Their conclusion was to strive for authenticity, wherever possible.
News & Media
But the way to truly honor him is to strive for his vision of America.
News & Media
He confesses no team can reach it, but the point is to strive for it.
News & Media
On each of these dimensions, a key decision is to strive for differentiation or similarity in styling.
Science
The goal is to strive for balance, that elusive state of being that we're all supposed to seek.
News & Media
The important thing is to strive for that 10% and know that you'll occasionally miss the mark".
News & Media
"In culture and politics, the only worthwhile vengeance is to strive for positive change against the negative forces of yesterday".
News & Media
But as a matter of policy, the better course would have been to strive for Security Council approval first.
News & Media
And a good New Year's resolution for America might be to strive for a more general mediocrity of fortune to replace the runaway plutocracy we have become.
News & Media
The Red Sox' public posture is to strive for 95 victories, see where that lands them and take their chances in the postseason.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "are to strive for", ensure it aligns with a sense of obligation, expectation, or a structured plan. For example, "Employees are to strive for excellence in customer service" clearly sets an expectation.
Common error
Avoid using "are to strive for" in overly casual or informal contexts. It can sound stilted. In casual conversation, use phrases like "should try for" or "aim for" instead.
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "are to strive for" functions as an auxiliary verb phrase indicating an intention, obligation, or plan to make an effort towards achieving a goal. As Ludwig AI explains, it's used to express goals or aspirations that one is expected to pursue.
Frequent in
News & Media
50%
Science
50%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Academia
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "are to strive for" is a grammatically sound construction used to express an intention or obligation to pursue a particular goal. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage for expressing aspirations. While relatively rare, it appears across varied contexts, including news and scientific publications. When incorporating "are to strive for" into your writing, consider its formality. Remember it is best suited for settings where a level of expectation or structured planning must be established. Keep in mind that while synonyms like "should aim for", "must pursue", or "are expected to seek" may exist, carefully consider the nuance of each.
More alternative expressions(6)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
should aim for
Indicates a recommendation or expectation rather than a strict obligation.
must pursue
Implies a stronger sense of necessity or obligation.
ought to work towards
Suggests a moral or ethical imperative to achieve a specific outcome.
need to aspire to
Highlights the importance of having high ambitions or goals.
are expected to seek
Focuses on external expectations and the act of searching for something.
intend to achieve
Emphasizes the plan and the intention of reaching a determined goal.
plan to accomplish
Suggests a detailed strategy and a commitment to completing a task.
hope to attain
Expresses a desire for a particular outcome, without a guarantee of success.
wish to realize
Indicates a personal ambition and the act of making something a reality.
try to fulfill
Focuses on the effort and dedication required to satisfy a requirement or promise.
FAQs
How can I rephrase "are to strive for" to sound more natural?
Consider using phrases like "should aim for", "need to aspire to", or "ought to work towards" depending on the context and desired level of formality.
Is there a difference between "are to strive for" and "are striving for"?
"Are to strive for" indicates a future intention or obligation, while "are striving for" describes a current ongoing effort. For example, "We are to strive for better results next quarter" versus "We are striving for better results this quarter".
When is it appropriate to use "are to strive for" in writing?
Use "are to strive for" in formal writing, such as policy documents, mission statements, or formal announcements, where you want to express an expectation or requirement. It's less appropriate in casual conversation.
What are some common synonyms for "are to strive for" that maintain a similar level of formality?
Alternatives include "must pursue", "are expected to seek", or "intend to achieve". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested