has been ambitious

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "has been ambitious" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that has consistently shown ambition over a period of time. Example: "She has been ambitious in her career, always striving for higher positions and greater challenges."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

She has been ambitious with her debut novel and, while it is not wholly successful, the subject matter alone makes for a thought-provoking read.

Independent

As much as he might act (and look) the part of prankster and punk provocateur, Mr. Scott has been ambitious from a remarkably young age.

The New York Times

She has been ambitious both in stance and in style, with a particular gift for the zoom from huge to tiny.

The New York Times - Books

From the time of its founding in the mid-1960s, when its chancellor, Gordon Shrum, went against the grain in Canadian higher education by deciding to award athletic scholarships and stress organized sports, Simon Fraser has been ambitious on fields of play.

The New York Times - Sports

While Wynton's recent slate of releases has been ambitious -- befitting a century-ending endeavor -- it is completely in keeping with his prolific musicality (including the release of more than 50 jazz and classical albums and a far-reaching touring and educational schedule in a 20-year career).

The New York Times - Arts

At least Microsoft admits that it has been "ambitious" with Windows Vista and is sorry that it shortened the time that XP would be available.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

The White House efforts have been ambitious -- and costly.

The New York Times

He is reported to have been ambitious and even to have acquired considerable wealth.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Though he may have been ambitious, however, he was not particularly clever.

The Economist

I begin to worry our single training ride may have been ambitious… Hours later we roll into Dover.

The Guardian - Travel

There also have been ambitious plans for the shoreline stretching west from Leith to Granton, including a yachting harbour, hotels, residential housing, and retail complexes.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "has been ambitious" to describe a sustained pattern of setting and pursuing challenging goals. This phrase is best suited when highlighting a long-term trend rather than a single instance of ambition.

Common error

Avoid using "has been ambitious" when describing unrealistic or impractical goals. Ensure that the described ambition aligns with achievable outcomes and demonstrable effort.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "has been ambitious" functions as a verb phrase used to describe a subject that has consistently displayed ambition over a period of time. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is grammatically correct and indicates a history of striving for challenging goals. The examples from Ludwig highlight its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "has been ambitious" is a grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe a sustained history of striving for challenging goals. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for use in a variety of contexts, including news, science, and general conversation. While not exceedingly common, its usage is well-established and understood. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with a demonstrable and realistic pursuit of goals. The sources like The New York Times, The Guardian and TechCrunch all confirm and provide context to these observations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

has pursued ambitious plans

Specifically addresses the pursuit of ambitious plans.

has consistently aimed high

Emphasizes a pattern of setting high goals.

has been driven and determined

Emphasizes both motivation and resolve.

has pursued lofty goals

Highlights the pursuit of ambitious objectives.

has always strived for

Focuses on consistent effort and striving.

has shown considerable drive

Highlights internal motivation and energy.

has been consistently proactive

Emphasizes consistent action and initiative.

has demonstrated great initiative

Shifts focus to taking proactive steps.

has displayed a strong desire to succeed

Focuses on the intent and motivation for achievement.

has set challenging targets

Highlights the act of establishing difficult goals.

FAQs

How can I use "has been ambitious" in a sentence?

Use "has been ambitious" to describe someone or something that consistently strives for challenging goals. For example: "The company "has been ambitious" in its expansion plans."

What are some alternatives to "has been ambitious"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "has pursued lofty goals", "has consistently aimed high", or "has demonstrated great initiative".

Is it better to say "has been ambitious" or "is ambitious"?

"Has been ambitious" implies a sustained effort or history of ambition, whereas "is ambitious" describes a current state. The better choice depends on whether you want to emphasize a past pattern or a present quality.

What's the difference between "has been ambitious" and "had been ambitious"?

"Has been ambitious" refers to a period leading up to the present, while "had been ambitious" refers to a time entirely in the past. For example: "She "has been ambitious" throughout her career" versus "She "had been ambitious" before retiring".