aspired towards

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "aspired towards" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a desire or ambition to achieve something or reach a particular goal. Example: "She always aspired towards becoming a successful author, dedicating her time to writing every day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

For Mr Moody, Beckett was an author who aspired towards nothingness.

The Economist

Numerous tissue engineering strategies aspired towards the endothelialization of graft surfaces to generate a non-thrombogenic barrier on artificial materials.

Biotechnology Advances

Choosing the same corner Walcott aspired towards, Van Persie slid home his 35th League goal of the year.

Independent

Just as Walter Pater thought that "all arts aspire towards the condition of music", so it seems all vowels aspired towards the condition of "ah".

Independent

In that novel, as in his new one, Lerner aspired towards what WG Sebald described as "poetic truth" – "What I'm striving for is authenticity; none of it is real".

The Guardian - Books

In "Offshore," the novel she wrote about the years she lived on the river, Fitzgerald drew a caustic yet tender group portrait of her fellow-houseboaters, watery drifters who "aspired towards the Chelsea shore," but who sank back, condemned by "a certain failure, distressing to themselves, to be like other people".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

He was dreaming of and aspiring towards a beautiful world.

Independent

On the contrary, Israel aspires towards calm, stability and peace".

The New York Times

Is this not, in truth, aspiring towards the condition of poetry and almost getting there?

Independent

"All art constantly aspires towards the condition of music," Walter Pater wrote.

The New Yorker

"All art," said Walter Pater, "constantly aspires towards the condition of music".

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "aspired towards" in formal writing, ensure that the context reflects a genuine sense of ambition and forward-thinking progress.

Common error

Avoid using "aspired towards" when describing mundane or easily achievable goals. Reserve it for situations where the desired outcome involves significant effort, skill, or personal growth.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "aspired towards" functions as a verb phrase indicating a direction or goal. It typically describes someone's ambitions or desires, as seen in Ludwig's examples, where individuals or entities "aspired towards" specific achievements or states.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

36%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "aspired towards" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express ambition or a strong desire to achieve a goal. Ludwig AI validates its correctness, although "aspired to" is more common. It appears most frequently in News & Media and Science contexts, indicating a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure the context reflects a significant and desirable goal, differentiating it from trivial or easily attainable objectives. Consider alternatives like "aimed for" or "strived for" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. While acceptable, be aware that it's less prevalent than "aspired to".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

aimed for

This suggests a direct target or objective, differing from the more general sense of striving implied by the original phrase.

set sights on

This conveys a determined focus on a specific goal, implying a clear vision of what is desired.

strove for

This implies considerable effort and determination, adding a stronger sense of struggle than "aspired towards".

worked toward

This puts emphasis on putting in effort in order to achieve something.

sought after

This highlights the desirability of the goal itself, focusing less on the act of aspiring.

pursued

This suggests a more active and ongoing effort, emphasizing the journey toward the goal.

endeavored to

This is a more formal and literary alternative, conveying a sense of serious commitment.

desired

This is a simpler and more direct way of expressing the wish for something, lacking the nuance of aspiration.

gravitated toward

This suggests a natural tendency or attraction, differing from the conscious effort implied by "aspired towards".

longed for

This emphasizes the emotional aspect of wanting something, implying a deep yearning.

FAQs

How can I use "aspired towards" in a sentence?

Use "aspired towards" to describe someone's ambitions or goals. For example, "She "aspired towards" a career in medicine." You can also say "He "aspired towards" becoming a leading expert in his field".

What are some alternatives to "aspired towards"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "aimed for", "strived for", or "sought after".

Is it correct to use "aspired towards" or should I use "aspired to"?

Both "aspired towards" and "aspired to" are grammatically correct, but "aspired to" is more common and widely accepted. "Aspired towards" suggests a slightly more directional or intentional movement.

What's the nuance between "aspired towards" and "worked towards"?

"Aspired towards" emphasizes the ambition and desire, while "worked towards" focuses on the effort and actions taken to achieve a goal. The first is about the dream, the second is about the actions done to realize it.