strive for

USAGE SUMMARY

"strive for" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to express a desire to work hard to achieve something. Example sentence: I will strive for excellence in all of my future endeavors.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Strive for that.

The New York Times

I strive for balance.

The New York Times

You can't strive for things".

The New York Times

Do not strive for perfection.

The New York Times

Others strive for sartorial consistency.

The New York Times

I strive for that.

The Guardian - Opinion

We strive for continuity".

The New York Times - Style

"We strive for perfection.

The New York Times - Sports

But strive for perfection.

The New York Times

We strive for that.

The New Yorker

(3) Strive for understanding.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "strive for" to convey a sense of dedicated effort and ambition toward achieving a specific goal. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, adding a touch of aspiration to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "strive for" with abstract nouns that don't represent achievable goals. For example, instead of "strive for understanding", consider rephrasing to "strive to understand" or "seek understanding".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strive for" functions as a verb phrase indicating a determined effort to achieve a specific goal or outcome. It is used to express aspiration and dedication, as supported by Ludwig AI's analysis and examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Wiki

35%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

6%

Encyclopedias

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "strive for" is a commonly used and grammatically correct verb phrase that expresses a strong desire and dedicated effort towards achieving a goal. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use across various domains, including news, wikis, and business. While versatile, it's important to use it with achievable objectives, as shown in the writing guidance. Alternatives like "aim for" or "aspire to" offer subtle nuances. With a neutral register and frequent appearance in authoritative sources, "strive for" remains a valuable addition to any writer's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strive to

This alternative focuses on the effort being made but omits the object of the effort.

aim for

This alternative is more direct and simple, focusing on the target rather than the effort.

aspire to

This alternative carries a sense of ambition and elevation.

endeavor to achieve

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the effort required.

pursue

This alternative suggests actively chasing or following after a goal.

seek

This alternative is a general term for trying to find or obtain something.

work towards

This alternative emphasizes the process and incremental steps.

try to attain

This alternative focuses on reaching a specific level or status.

make an effort for

This alternative highlights the exertion of energy.

push for

This alternative conveys a sense of urgency and determination.

FAQs

How can I use "strive for" in a sentence?

You can use "strive for" to indicate a strong effort to achieve something, as in "We should "strive for excellence" in our work" or "They "strive for perfection" in their craft".

What are some alternatives to "strive for"?

Alternatives to "strive for" include "aim for", "aspire to", or "work towards", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to "strive for excellence" or "strive to be excellent"?

"Strive for excellence" emphasizes the goal itself, while "strive to be excellent" focuses on the state of being. Both are correct, but the choice depends on whether you want to highlight the achievement or the personal quality.

What's the difference between "strive for" and "struggle for"?

"Strive for" suggests a dedicated effort toward a goal, while "struggle for" implies facing difficulties or opposition in the pursuit. "Strive for" is generally more positive and proactive than "struggle for".