strive to define

USAGE SUMMARY

"strive to define" is correct and usable in written English.
It is a phrase that is used to emphasize working hard to accomplish something, usually to create clarity and understanding. For example, "We should strive to define our goals so that we can create a clear plan of action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

You want to always strive to define standards up.

The New Yorker

As I strive to define my own family, I still can't figure out what I think the perfect family is".

Independent

When he announced his candidacy he looked to reassure Fifa colleagues: "I am one of you, and I know how hard you strive to define football".

The Guardian - Sport

Firstly, a high percentage of the films she worked on feature intelligent, self-assertive heroines who strive to define their roles in life.

Columbia University

So I close with a challenge: that we each strive to define what we can do to invent a better MIT community for those who are here today, and for those who will follow us tomorrow.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

One reads it certainly for its politics, but even more for the depth and complexity of its characters who strive to define themselves in a world that still puts everything and everybody in one or another category of ideology and national aspiration.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Now he has many collaborators as he strives to define an ever-evolving community.

The New York Times

Throughout his rule, Mr. Hussein strove to define himself as heir to the greatest leaders and warriors of the region's past.

The New York Times

Over time I understood that what this really meant was that they were striving to define themselves as something other than the endless media presentations of "scroungers".

The Guardian - Opinion

He continues striving to define the role of the 3D printer for the Togolese market and make plans to improve its functioning.

Yale University

Like those great films, "Pan's Labyrinth" needs a child at its heart, because it is partly about a nation striving to define itself, and confronted by a confusion of paths.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "strive to define", ensure the context clearly indicates what you are trying to define. Clarity in purpose enhances the phrase's effectiveness.

Common error

While "strive to define" is grammatically correct, avoid using it excessively in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler phrases like "try to define" or "aim to define" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strive to define" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose. It connects an action (often implied) with the goal of establishing a clear definition or understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

29%

Academia

29%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "strive to define" is a grammatically correct and purposeful phrase used to express a dedicated effort towards establishing clarity and precision. While recognized by Ludwig AI as correct and usable, its register leans towards formal and scientific contexts, making it less suitable for casual communication. Alternatives like "seek to define" or "aim to define" can offer similar meanings with varying degrees of intensity. When employing this phrase, ensure the context supports the formal tone and the purpose is clearly articulated.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

endeavor to define

Replaces "strive" with "endeavor", maintaining a formal tone and emphasizing effort.

aim to define

Substitutes "strive" with "aim", implying a specific goal or objective.

seek to define

Employs "seek" in place of "strive", indicating a pursuit or search for a definition.

aspire to define

Employs "aspire" to suggest a higher level of ambition in defining.

attempt to define

Uses "attempt" instead of "strive", suggesting a less intense effort.

work towards defining

Adds "work towards" to emphasize the process of defining.

undertake to define

Replaces "strive" with "undertake", suggesting a formal commitment to defining.

make an effort to define

Replaces "strive" with a more explicit description of effort.

pursue the definition of

Restructures the phrase to focus on the pursuit of a definition.

try to define

Uses "try" instead of "strive", conveying a simple attempt.

FAQs

How can I use "strive to define" in a sentence?

You can use "strive to define" to indicate a dedicated effort to clarify or establish something, as in, "Researchers often "strive to define" the underlying mechanisms of a disease".

What are some alternatives to "strive to define"?

Alternatives include "seek to define", "attempt to define", or "aim to define", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to use "strive to define" or "try to define"?

"Strive to define" suggests a more determined and persistent effort than "try to define", which implies a simple attempt.

What is the difference between "strive to define" and "work towards defining"?

"Strive to define" emphasizes the active and dedicated effort to establish a clear definition, while "work towards defining" highlights the ongoing process of definition.