low aspiration

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "low aspiration" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a lack of ambition or a desire for minimal achievement in various contexts, such as personal goals or professional objectives. Example: "His low aspiration for career advancement surprised his colleagues, who expected him to strive for higher positions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

In conclusion, we have shown that aspirating twice from the same site reduces cell counts (of MNCs and hMSCs) in the second aspirate without affecting the biological characteristics, and that a low aspiration volume gives an uncertain cellular yield.

Acta Orthopaedica

Low aspiration begets low aspiration.

The Economist

Low aspiration is probably the biggest single problem.

The Guardian

For the government, the reason behind the lack of progress on social mobility is clear: low aspiration.

The Guardian

A large minority of adults have no qualifications, and there are generations of families who have not worked and so there is low aspiration for their children.

The Guardian

Class cuts like a knife through everything as the government blames "low aspiration", chivvying the young into weak schemes with no jobs at the end.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

This seems toindicate a positive link between the 'capacity to realise' and the'capacity to aspire' and provides evidence for the existence of a'vicious cycle' of low aspirations and poverty (Appadurai 2004).

IZA Journal of Migration

"No, we don't have low aspirations.

The Guardian

Unlike some digital payment systems, the MintChip has low aspirations.

The New York Times

In north-east Lincolnshire, the challenges are large class sizes and children with low aspirations.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The movie's low aspirations are depressing because its best gags are agreeably demented.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing societal issues like poverty or education, use "low aspiration" to accurately describe a lack of ambition among certain groups. This can help to highlight systemic challenges and the need for intervention.

Common error

Avoid using "low aspiration" interchangeably with apathy. Apathy implies a lack of interest or concern, while "low aspiration" specifically refers to a limited desire for achievement. Ensure your word choice reflects the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "low aspiration" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "low" modifies the noun "aspiration". This phrase describes a state of having minimal ambition or limited desire for achievement, consistent with Ludwig AI's analysis.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "low aspiration" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe a lack of ambition or reduced expectations. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and formal business settings. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the intended meaning and avoid confusing it with apathy. Consider alternatives like "lack of ambition" or "modest expectations" to fine-tune your message and explore related concepts further.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lack of ambition

Focuses specifically on the absence of a strong desire for achievement.

limited ambition

Emphasizes the restricted scope or extent of one's goals.

modest expectations

Highlights the understated nature of anticipated outcomes.

low expectations

Directly mirrors the structure but uses a different noun.

lack of motivation

Shifts focus to the driving force behind achievement, rather than the goal itself.

reduced expectations

Highlights that the anticipation or hopes from the individuals have been lowered.

unambitious nature

Highlights that someone has not ambitious feelings, it is a trait.

lackluster goals

Highlights that goals are dull or uninspiring.

aiming low

Indicates a conscious decision to set easily attainable targets.

settling for mediocrity

Suggests an acceptance of average or substandard results.

FAQs

How can I use "low aspiration" in a sentence?

You can use "low aspiration" to describe a situation where someone lacks ambition or has minimal goals. For example, "The community suffered from "low expectations" and limited opportunities".

What are some alternatives to "low aspiration"?

Alternatives include "lack of ambition", "limited goals", or "modest expectations". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "low aspirations" or "lack of aspiration"?

Both "low aspirations" and "lack of aspiration" are grammatically correct, but they carry slightly different connotations. "Low aspirations" suggests a quantifiable level, while "lack of aspiration" implies a complete absence of ambition.

What factors can contribute to "low aspiration" in young people?

Factors contributing to "low aspiration" can include socioeconomic status, "lack of role models", poor educational opportunities, and a discouraging environment.