pursue ambition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'pursue ambition' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to express a commitment to achieving a goal or ambition. For example: "After graduating college, I decided to pursue my ambition of starting my own business."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Academia

Formal & Business

Science

Reference

Social Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Either they are career obsessives who neglect their children to pursue ambition, or if they stay at home they're either lazy benefit scroungers or rich, idle yummy mummies leaving children with nannies while they take spa days.

The Guardian - Opinion

Biden urged his listeners not to fall victim to the human tendency to rationalize choices which pursue ambition at the expense of the needs of their loved ones or which pursue socially-mandated preferences over their own North Stars.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Alfonso V (the Magnanimous; 1416 58) opted to pursue ambitions in Italy and generally neglected his peninsular domains.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Why designate just one time of year to pursue ambitions you should be chasing all along?

The New York Times

He will resign as leader of the CGIL on July 8th to pursue ambitions in left-wing politics, some think giving way to Guglielmo Epifani, his deputy.

The Economist

Lee also points out that she was discriminated against for being a woman who not only needed but wanted to pursue ambitions outside the home.

The Guardian - Books

That matters, too, and accelerators provide the right type of environment where individuals feel inspired to pursue ambitions.

Huffington Post

Work as hard as you need to to be the best or very close to being among the best, but don't pursue ambitions you know you won't be good at.

WikiHow

As the king and queen of shameless self-promotion, Kanye and Kim exhibit the perils of pursuing ambition at any cost, just like the Bard's Scottish (and sociopathic) husband and wife team.

Huffington Post

Toledo's career thus far is a modern, indoorsy version of what it means to be young, testing your limits and pursuing ambitions in public, leaving the rough-draft version of yourself available for all to see.

The New Yorker

Of course there may often be a lack of clarity about priorities: in recent years, the union has simultaneously pursued ambitions to deepen and broaden, at cost to both.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pursue ambition", ensure the context clearly defines the specific ambition being aimed for. This adds clarity and impact to your writing.

Common error

While "pursue ambition" is grammatically correct, it can sound somewhat generic in highly formal or academic writing. Consider more specific alternatives like "strive for excellence" or "dedicate oneself to achieving specific goals" for greater impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pursue ambition" functions as a verb phrase where 'pursue' (verb) acts upon 'ambition' (noun). It typically describes the act of actively striving towards achieving a specific goal or aspiration. Ludwig AI also confirms its appropriate usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

17%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Science

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "pursue ambition" is a grammatically correct and understandable expression that describes the action of actively working towards a specific, significant goal. While Ludwig AI confirms the validity of the phrase, it is relatively rare. Its usage is generally neutral and professional, making it suitable for various contexts, including news reporting and formal communications. When writing, ensure the ambition is clear and specific, and consider stronger alternatives for greater impact in formal settings. While its overall frequency is considered rare, Ludwig's examples demonstrate use in reputable sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

follow one's passion

Highlights the importance of intrinsic motivation and personal interest.

chase a dream

Emphasizes the aspirational and visionary aspect, focusing on a long-term goal.

strive for success

Highlights the effort and determination required to achieve a desired outcome.

aim for the top

Focuses on achieving the highest position or level of accomplishment.

aspire to greatness

Focuses on aiming for high achievement and recognition.

work towards a goal

Emphasizes the practical steps and dedication needed to achieve a specific objective.

seek fulfillment

Shifts the emphasis to personal satisfaction and contentment.

endeavor to achieve

Highlights the effort and commitment involved in attaining something.

devote oneself to a cause

Emphasizes dedication and commitment to a specific purpose or belief.

advance one's career

Focuses specifically on professional growth and development.

FAQs

How can I use "pursue ambition" in a sentence?

You can use "pursue ambition" to describe someone actively working towards a significant goal. For example: "She decided to "pursue ambition" by enrolling in a demanding graduate program."

What are some alternatives to "pursue ambition"?

Alternatives to "pursue ambition" include "chase a dream", "strive for success", or "follow one's passion", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "pursue ambitions"?

Yes, "pursue ambitions" is correct. It's used when referring to multiple goals or aspirations rather than a single, overarching ambition.

What is the difference between "pursue ambition" and "have ambition"?

"Have ambition" simply means to possess a desire for achievement, while ""pursue ambition"" implies taking active steps to realize that desire.