entrepreneurial spirit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "entrepreneurial spirit" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone who is willing to take risks in order to start or run a business. For example: "John has always been an ambitious person and has a strong entrepreneurial spirit."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The entrepreneurial spirit remained.

The New York Times

His entrepreneurial spirit started young.

The New York Times

They had "entrepreneurial spirit," he said.

The New Yorker

This is the entrepreneurial spirit.

The New York Times - Sports

"I had an entrepreneurial spirit," he says.

The Economist

Could Tunstall unleash a hidden entrepreneurial spirit?

Independent

Few would condemn this entrepreneurial spirit.

The New York Times

"Today, there's a greater entrepreneurial spirit".

The New York Times

The Communist Party bureaucracy stifles the entrepreneurial spirit.

The New York Times

Borden had a truly entrepreneurial spirit.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The innovation and entrepreneurial spirit are here.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person or company, use "entrepreneurial spirit" to highlight their proactive approach to innovation and business ventures.

Common error

Avoid using "entrepreneurial spirit" to justify poorly planned or excessively risky ventures. Ensure the ventures involve innovation, problem-solving, and a calculated approach to risk.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "entrepreneurial spirit" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a general attribute or quality, namely the eagerness and aptitude for starting and managing businesses. This is supported by Ludwig which indicates that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

21%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "entrepreneurial spirit" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe the qualities of innovation, risk-taking, and proactive business development. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for use in written English. Analysis reveals that the phrase appears most frequently in "News & Media", "Academia", and "Formal & Business" contexts, with authoritative sources like The New York Times and Forbes using it extensively. When writing, remember that while "entrepreneurial spirit" highlights positive qualities, it should not be used to excuse recklessness. Alternatives such as "enterprising mindset" or "innovative drive" can be used depending on the specific nuance desired. Overall, the phrase effectively communicates a dynamic and forward-thinking approach to business.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

enterprising mindset

Focuses on the mindset aspect of being enterprising.

innovative drive

Emphasizes the force behind innovation.

business acumen

Highlights the sharp business skills involved.

resourcefulness

Focuses on the ability to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties.

initiative and drive

Highlights the ability to assess and initiate things independently.

commercial creativity

Emphasizes creativity applied to business.

inventive nature

Highlights the tendency to invent and create.

risk-taking propensity

Focuses specifically on the willingness to take risks.

start-up mentality

Refers specifically to the mindset needed for startups.

pioneering zeal

Highlights the enthusiasm for pioneering new ventures.

FAQs

How can I describe someone with "entrepreneurial spirit"?

You might say they are resourceful, innovative, driven, or have a "start-up mentality".

Is "entrepreneurial spirit" the same as "business acumen"?

While related, "entrepreneurial spirit" emphasizes the drive and initiative to start new ventures, whereas "business acumen" focuses on the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in business.

When is it appropriate to use "entrepreneurial spirit" in a sentence?

Use it when describing someone's passion, initiative, and willingness to take risks to create or grow a business. It highlights a proactive and innovative approach.

What's a more formal alternative to "entrepreneurial spirit"?

In a formal context, consider using "enterprising mindset" or "innovative drive", which convey a similar meaning with a slightly more professional tone.