moderately ambitious

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "moderately ambitious" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that has a reasonable level of ambition, neither too high nor too low. Example: "Her goals for the project are moderately ambitious, aiming for steady growth rather than rapid expansion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Last year he put forward a moderately ambitious set of structural reforms that he presented under the label Agenda 2010.

The Economist

The federal government, and all the states, have committed themselves in a "national partnership agreement" to moderately ambitious targets for all these ends.

The Economist

He has a dehydrator, an ice-cream maker, good knives, and, aside from a new, three-thousand-dollar Cryovac machine, nothing beyond what a moderately ambitious hobbyist might own.

The New Yorker

Last week Italy tried a moderately ambitious style that was absorbed comfortably by a French team who counter-attacked with patience and pace to make tries for each of the three-quarters, including the debutant, Clermont Auvergne centre Wesley Fofana.

Independent

It considers a moderately ambitious scenario where Australia starts with an effective carbon price of US$15 per tonne this year, a "strong scenario" with a starting carbon price of US$30, and a "very strong" scenario with a starting price of US$50 a tonne.

The Guardian

This was adorned by the erection of a monument to the heroes of the People's War, an act that was followed by the still more damaging placing in the exact centre of the square, blocking the axis, of Mao's mausoleum in what, were it not for the revolutionary statuary, would look like the library for a moderately ambitious Midwestern campus.

The Guardian - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

ALBANY — Gov. Eliot Spitzer's budget, specifically his ambitious plan to encourage moderately priced housing, is predicated on raising $900 million by selling two parcels of land to the north and south of the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.

The New York Times

A less ambitious outing also has its rewards: Little Monadnock, in Fitzwilliam, is a smaller peak (1,883 feet), with a moderately steep path through thick woods that offers a somewhat challenging hike.

The New York Times - Travel

The search for small molecules that bind poorly characterized proteins may seem like a cumbersome and tedious approach but the identification of moderately tight binders for proteins is far less ambitious than the development of tight binders.

Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry

An ambitious meal is less than $100 a person with moderately priced wines.

The New York Times - Travel

The participants aren't extreme or professional athletes; this is a vacation itinerary for the moderately to vigorously active, and the mileage and elevation gain can be adjusted for those who want a less ambitious trip.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "moderately ambitious" to set a balanced tone in professional settings, indicating a drive for improvement without suggesting excessive risk-taking.

Common error

Avoid using "moderately ambitious" when the situation calls for a stronger expression of aspiration or determination. Ensure the phrase accurately reflects the intended level of drive and commitment, because it can be misinterpreted if your intention is to convey a strong drive instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "moderately ambitious" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to describe the degree of ambition. Ludwig shows its frequent use in describing plans, goals, or individuals. The expression indicates a balance between aspiration and realism.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "moderately ambitious" is a versatile phrase used to describe a balanced level of aspiration. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and suitable for various professional and journalistic contexts. While grammatically sound and generally well-received, it's crucial to ensure its usage aligns with the intended degree of aspiration, avoiding misinterpretations of being unambitious. Alternatives such as "somewhat aspiring" and "reasonably challenging" can be considered based on the specific context and desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat aspiring

Emphasizes a slight degree of aspiration, similar to being moderately ambitious.

reasonably challenging

Suggests a level of ambition that is grounded in what is realistically achievable.

mildly enterprising

Highlights the ambition in terms of initiating new projects or ventures, but in a controlled way.

fairly driven

Describes ambition as a motivating force, toned down by the adverb "fairly".

moderately purposeful

Indicates ambition in terms of having a defined aim or goal, but not excessively so.

slightly zealous

Expresses ambition as a kind of enthusiasm or passion, but only to a limited extent.

adequately motivated

Suggests a sufficient level of ambition to achieve a certain goal, but not necessarily exceeding expectations.

suitably motivated

Describes someone who has the drive to meet expectations without overdoing it.

passably go-getting

Indicates ambition as assertiveness, while maintaining a moderate degree.

kind of pushing

Describes ambition in terms of striving for progress, however in a controlled or moderate way.

FAQs

How can I use "moderately ambitious" in a sentence?

You can use "moderately ambitious" to describe goals, plans, or people that have a good balance of aspiration and realism. For instance, "The company set "moderately ambitious" sales targets for the next quarter".

What are some alternatives to "moderately ambitious"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "somewhat aspiring", "reasonably challenging", or "fairly driven".

Is it better to be "moderately ambitious" or highly ambitious?

It depends on the situation. Being "moderately ambitious" can be advantageous when steady progress is valued, while being highly ambitious might be more suitable when aiming for rapid growth or significant change. Consider the risk tolerance and resources available when deciding.

What's the difference between "moderately ambitious" and "slightly ambitious"?

"Moderately ambitious" suggests a noticeable degree of aspiration, while "slightly ambitious" implies a minimal level of ambition. The choice depends on the degree of aspiration you want to convey.