demonstrate ambition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "demonstrate ambition" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing someone's drive, goals, or determination to achieve success in a particular area. Example: "In her application, she aimed to demonstrate ambition by outlining her long-term career goals and the steps she plans to take to achieve them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

We need to demonstrate ambition to have a responsible society where all people understand and are aware of their obligations to each other.

The Guardian - Opinion

Writing in the Observer, he says: "We need to demonstrate ambition to have a responsible society where all people understand and are aware of their obligations to each other.

The Guardian

Even though most new college/university graduates at his company do not use much English, acquiring more English proficiency certificates is one way for an employee to demonstrate ambition.

Language Testing in Asia

The agency says the posts, based in Warrington and London, are open to over-18s and will be given to those who can demonstrate ambition and aptitude rather than qualifications alone.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The chairman of the Football Association could not be faulted for demonstrating ambition.

The Guardian - Sport

Yohan Cabaye's club-record £12.5m arrival from Paris Saint-Germain set a benchmark, a move that demonstrated ambition.

The Guardian - Sport

If the role includes reporting to the board, it's worth requesting to attend meetings before the role starts – which can demonstrate commitment, ambition and initiative.

The Guardian

West Ham will demonstrate their ambition by promising significant transfer funds plus a lucrative contract as they seek to lure a successor to Sam Allardyce to oversee the club's final season at Upton Park.

The Guardian - Sport

Guus Hiddink says top players will be attracted to Chelsea next season even if the club are not involved in the Champions League – so long as they demonstrate their ambition to make a rapid return to the elite.

The Guardian - Sport

If more areas demonstrate the ambition to manage their local housing market and central government loosens the apron strings that restrict local action, we can go some way to making the sector work for people in poverty.

The Guardian

Barry's prolific historical paintings demonstrate his ambition to rival the painters of antiquity and the Renaissance and to practise what the then president of the RA, Sir Joshua Reynolds, always preached that history painting was the noblest form of art.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "demonstrate ambition", be specific about how the ambition is being shown. Provide concrete examples or actions that illustrate the desire for achievement.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that someone "demonstrates ambition" without providing context. Explain the specific goals or actions that exemplify their ambition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "demonstrate ambition" functions as a verb-noun combination, where "demonstrate" acts as a transitive verb requiring a direct object (ambition). It's used to describe the act of displaying or showing a strong desire for achievement, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "demonstrate ambition" is a grammatically correct and understandable way to describe the act of showing a strong desire to achieve goals. While relatively rare, as confirmed by Ludwig, it appears in reputable sources such as news outlets and scientific publications. To use the phrase effectively, provide specific examples that illustrate the ambition being displayed, while avoiding vague statements. Consider alternatives like "show ambition" or "exhibit ambition" to vary your language. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is valid and appropriate for describing a purposeful display of aspiration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

show ambition

Replaces "demonstrate" with the more common synonym "show".

exhibit ambition

Uses "exhibit" instead of "demonstrate", suggesting a clear display of ambition.

display ambition

Employs "display" as a synonym for "demonstrate", highlighting the visible aspect of ambition.

manifest ambition

Substitutes "demonstrate" with "manifest", indicating ambition becoming apparent.

prove ambition

Replaces "demonstrate" with "prove", suggesting ambition is being validated.

reveal ambition

Uses "reveal" in place of "demonstrate", implying that ambition is being disclosed.

signal ambition

Employs "signal" as a substitute for "demonstrate", suggesting ambition is being indicated.

illustrate ambition

Replaces "demonstrate" with "illustrate", implying that ambition is being exemplified.

give evidence of ambition

Expands the phrase to explicitly state that evidence of ambition is being provided.

make a show of ambition

Uses a more idiomatic expression, emphasizing a display of ambition.

FAQs

How can I "demonstrate ambition" in a job interview?

You can "demonstrate ambition" in a job interview by discussing your long-term career goals, highlighting specific achievements, and expressing a desire for growth and development within the company. Use specific examples to "show your drive".

What are some alternative ways to express "demonstrate ambition"?

Alternatives to "demonstrate ambition" include "show ambition", "exhibit ambition", or "display ambition". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to "demonstrate ambition" or simply state that you are ambitious?

It's more effective to "demonstrate ambition" through actions and achievements than to simply state that you are ambitious. Showing, not just telling, makes your ambition more credible.

In what contexts is it most appropriate to use the phrase "demonstrate ambition"?

The phrase "demonstrate ambition" is suitable in formal settings like performance reviews, job applications, and academic discussions. It's used to describe how someone actively pursues their goals and aspirations. In more informal settings, consider alternatives like "show your drive" or "be enterprising".