lofty ambition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'lofty ambition' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe a goal that is high or noble in nature. For example, "He had a lofty ambition to one day become an astronaut."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

It is a lofty ambition for a country that has yet to fully embrace rugby.

The New York Times - Sports

A lofty ambition, but one he pulls off with some success.

The Guardian - Books

Unfortunately, the lofty ambition was not always matched by the resources to back it up.

The New York Times

Changing the world with a music festival seems a lofty ambition.

The New York Times

Mr Fu wants to expand his business with the lofty ambition of competing with the industry leader, Rosetta Stone.

The Economist

The international stature of the Parthenon requires no words, but does this new museum live up to the lofty ambition?

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

He has lofty ambitions in motor sport.

The Guardian - Sport

The union's president, Sami Arap, has lofty ambitions.

The New York Times - Sports

And despite being a suburban boy, he had lofty ambitions.

The Guardian - Books

"I have very lofty ambitions of how I want to execute my vision," Ms. Mankins said.

The New York Times

Previously, the sticking point was the amount of effort involved in achieving these lofty ambitions.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lofty ambition" to describe a goal that is not only ambitious but also carries a sense of nobility, idealism, or significant positive impact. The phrase is particularly effective when discussing goals that require considerable effort and may seem difficult to achieve.

Common error

Avoid using "lofty ambition" to describe trivial or self-serving goals. The phrase implies a sense of higher purpose, so using it inappropriately can sound pompous or ironic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lofty ambition" functions as a noun phrase, where 'lofty' serves as an adjective modifying the noun 'ambition'. It characterizes the nature of the ambition as elevated, noble, or grand. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lofty ambition" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe goals that are high-reaching and often ethically significant. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is appropriate for formal and neutral contexts, particularly in news and media. Its effective use lies in conveying the scale and impact of the ambition, while avoiding overuse in trivial situations. Alternatives like "grand aspiration" or "noble goal" can provide nuanced variations. The phrase's prevalence in authoritative sources underscores its reliability and appropriateness in conveying aspirations that extend beyond the ordinary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

towering goal

Similar to lofty, emphasizes the height and difficulty of achieving the goal.

grand aspiration

Emphasizes the impressive scale or scope of the ambition.

exalted aim

Implies a highly elevated or respected goal.

noble goal

Highlights the moral or ethical quality of the ambition.

far-reaching vision

Stresses the extensive impact and long-term perspective of the ambition.

high-minded objective

Suggests an ambition driven by elevated principles or ideals.

aspirational dream

Highlights the aspirational and visionary nature of the ambition.

ambitious undertaking

Focuses on the effort and commitment required to achieve the ambition.

significant objective

Underlines the relevance and noteworthiness of the ambition.

grandiose scheme

Suggests a large-scale and potentially unrealistic ambition.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "lofty ambition" in a sentence?

Employ "lofty ambition" when characterizing a goal that is exceptionally high or morally commendable. For example, "Her "lofty ambition" was to eradicate poverty in her community."

What are some alternatives to "lofty ambition"?

Depending on the context, consider using phrases like "grand aspiration", "noble goal", or "high-minded objective". Each carries a slightly different nuance.

Is it appropriate to use "lofty ambition" in formal writing?

Yes, "lofty ambition" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing significant goals or aspirations in fields like politics, academia, or social reform. Its use indicates a serious and thoughtful tone.

Can "lofty ambition" be used negatively?

While generally positive, "lofty ambition" can be used ironically or critically if the ambition is perceived as unrealistic, impractical, or disconnected from reality. However, this usage is less common.