mission in life

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mission in life" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a person's purpose or goal that they feel strongly about pursuing throughout their life. Example: "Finding my mission in life has been a transformative journey that has shaped my values and aspirations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

With art, Dominique and John found their mission in life.

The New Yorker

"That's his mission in life, getting women pregnant.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Now the opposition has a mission in life," he wrote.

The New Yorker

His sole mission in life was to stop the festival.

The Guardian - Music

Some people are on a mission in life.

The Guardian - Sport

"It seemed like he had a mission in life".

The New York Times

Finally, the comment that "AIPAC's members have been admirably honest about their mission in life".

The Economist

"My mission in life is to make skinny girls fat," Mr. Lyons told my table.

The New York Times - Food

Its members have been admirably honest about their mission in life.

The Economist

He was but 68 and died before he could complete his mission in life.

The New York Times

But not everyone's mission in life was to accomplish that particular goal.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing personal aspirations or motivations, using the phrase "mission in life" can add a sense of dedication and purpose to your writing. Ensure the context aligns with a long-term, significant goal.

Common error

Avoid using "mission in life" to describe everyday tasks or short-term goals; reserve it for significant, life-altering pursuits to maintain its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mission in life" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a linking verb. It describes a person's perceived purpose or calling. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "mission in life" is a widely used and grammatically sound expression that signifies a person's overarching purpose or calling. According to Ludwig, the phrase is often found in news and media contexts, indicating its relevance in conveying dedication and long-term commitment. While the phrase is versatile, reserving it for significant, life-altering pursuits helps maintain its impact. Semantically related alternatives include "life's purpose" and "ultimate goal".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

life's purpose

Focuses on the inherent reason for existence.

raison d'être

A French term that means 'reason for being'.

calling in life

Emphasizes a strong inclination or vocation.

driving force

Highlights the motivational aspect.

ultimate goal

Refers to a long-term aspiration.

life's work

Focuses on career and accomplishments.

personal quest

Implies a journey or search for meaning.

grand design

Suggests a larger, overarching plan.

core purpose

Highlights the fundamental reason for existence or action.

chief aim

Points to the primary objective or intention.

FAQs

How can I use "mission in life" in a sentence?

You can use "mission in life" to describe a long-term, significant goal or purpose that someone is deeply committed to. For example, "Her "life's work" became her "mission in life": advocating for environmental protection".

What's the difference between "mission in life" and "goal"?

"Mission in life" implies a profound, overarching purpose that guides one's actions and decisions, while "goal" refers to a specific, achievable objective. The former has more long-term impact, while the latter is a stepping stone.

What can I say instead of "mission in life"?

You can use alternatives like "life's purpose", "life's work", or "ultimate goal" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "mission in life" in professional communication?

Yes, it can be appropriate, especially when describing a company's or an individual's core values or long-term vision. However, ensure the context is serious and aligns with the gravitas of the phrase.