desire to succeed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "desire to succeed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing someone's ambition or motivation to achieve success in a particular area, such as career or personal goals. Example: "Her desire to succeed drove her to work long hours and continuously improve her skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It shows ambition, and a desire to succeed.

The New York Times

He also has an incredible desire to succeed.

The Guardian - Sport

I sense a huge desire to succeed," he said.

The Guardian

Did loneliness fuel his desire to succeed as a sprinter?

The Guardian - Sport

It sparked in him a desire to succeed, and a lifelong friendship with Mr. Parks.

The New York Times

There are frequent emotional highs and lows, and the desire to succeed can become all-consuming.

The New York Times

They place the candidates' own immediate desire to succeed above the nation's greater good.

The New York Times - Magazine

Associate veterinarian with a professional attitude and a desire to succeed.

Cornell University

He is a strong personality and has an absolute desire to succeed.

The Guardian - Sport

But Ms. Lopez-Hanratty never gave up hope or her desire to succeed.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"He has a tremendous desire to succeed," Bosco Coach Tim Haley said.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "desire to succeed" with specific actions or traits to make your writing more impactful. For example: "His desire to succeed, coupled with hard work, led to his promotion."

Common error

Avoid repeatedly using "desire to succeed" in close proximity within a narrative. Vary your language by using synonyms like "ambition", "drive", or "motivation" to keep the writing engaging and prevent it from sounding monotonous.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "desire to succeed" functions primarily as a noun phrase that describes a motivating force or ambition. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable. It acts as the subject or object of a sentence, indicating the underlying reason for someone's actions or goals.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

18%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Science

7%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "desire to succeed" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe ambition and motivation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, ranging from news and media to academic and formal business settings. Analysis of numerous examples reveals that it functions as a noun phrase, conveying a strong internal drive to achieve goals. While "desire to succeed" is widely applicable, varying your language with synonyms like "ambition to prosper", "drive to achieve", or "motivation to thrive" can enhance your writing. Be aware of overusing the phrase and avoid monotony by incorporating a range of vocabulary to express the same sentiment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hunger for success

Conveys a strong, almost primal need to achieve success.

drive to achieve

Highlights the internal force pushing someone towards accomplishment.

passion for achievement

Emphasizes the emotional investment in reaching one's goals.

determination to win

Underscores resolve and competitiveness in overcoming obstacles.

eagerness to excel

Suggests enthusiasm and a proactive approach to high performance.

motivation to thrive

Focuses on flourishing and growing, not just reaching a goal.

resolve to flourish

Focuses on the strength of mind required to grow and develop successfully.

ambition to prosper

Emphasizes financial success and overall well-being.

aspiration to triumph

Conveys a lofty goal and a sense of grand victory.

burning ambition

Highlights an intense, all-consuming desire for accomplishment.

FAQs

How can I use "desire to succeed" in a sentence?

You can use "desire to succeed" to describe someone's ambition or motivation. For example, "Her "desire to succeed" drove her to work hard." Alternatively, consider using synonyms like "ambition to prosper" or "drive to achieve".

What are some alternatives to "desire to succeed"?

Some alternatives include "motivation to thrive", "determination to win", or "eagerness to excel". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Which is more appropriate, "desire to succeed" or "ambition to succeed"?

Both "desire to succeed" and "ambition to succeed" are appropriate. "Desire" emphasizes the internal feeling, while "ambition" highlights the goal-oriented aspect. Use them interchangeably, or choose based on which aspect you want to emphasize. Consider also the "burning ambition" alternative.

What's the difference between "desire to succeed" and "hunger for success"?

"Desire to succeed" is a general expression of wanting to achieve goals. "Hunger for success" implies a more intense and almost insatiable need to achieve success. The latter conveys a stronger sense of drive and determination than the former. Also, consider the "passion for achievement" alternative.