substantial ambition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "substantial ambition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant or considerable level of ambition someone has in pursuing their goals or aspirations. Example: "Her substantial ambition to become a leader in her field drove her to work long hours and seek out new opportunities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

You could hardly blame postmodernists for rushing in where architects of more substantial ambition feared to go.

The New York Times - Arts

In it, the council leaders made 27 pretty major demands but made a point of saying they "remain adamant they will only agree to a mayor and the costs of introducing one if the powers and funding on offer from government match their substantial ambition for the city region's economy, infrastructure, jobs and housing".

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Luft saw quickly, in the nineteen-thirties, that Hollywood was the place for him, but he had substantial ambitions of other sorts as well.

The New Yorker

He is that rare thing: a writer whose substantial ambitions are matched by an acute understanding of the way people actually behave.

The Guardian

However, the success of the Ghilzays was not to last long, as they were challenged both by their fellow Pashtuns the Abdālīs (Durrānīs)—and by the plans of Nādr Qolī Beg (later Nādir Shah), a Ṣafavid subordinate who harboured substantial ambitions of his own.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These steps will add momentum to efforts long underway and enable the best political staff in America to move with all due haste toward fulfilling our substantial ambitions.

Huffington Post

The problem is that while the ambition is substantial, the parts are still too familiar.

The New York Times

Delivering even a substantial fraction of its ambitions will entail pulling hundreds of levers with an extraordinary dexterity that has so far eluded South Africa's rulers.

The New York Times - Magazine

But the management's ambitions remain substantial - a full-time community outreach worker starts work next month, and the theatre is committed to offering 100 seats per performance at only £12 for under-25s.

The Guardian

There is a substantial gender gap in political ambition; men tend to have it, and women don't".

The New Yorker

Recently orphaned, Lang moves to Williamsburg with a substantial inheritance and the vague ambition of joining the Brooklyn literati, only to imperil his assets and his dignity with alarming frequency.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "substantial ambition" when you want to convey that someone has a significant and noteworthy level of aspiration, especially in contexts where the ambition is a key driving force for action or achievement.

Common error

While "substantial ambition" is grammatically correct, avoid overusing the adjective "substantial" in very informal conversations. Simpler words like "great" or "high" might sound more natural.

Linguistic Context

"Substantial ambition" functions as a descriptor, modifying a person's aspirations. It emphasizes the magnitude or significance of the desire to achieve something. Ludwig AI identifies it as a valid and usable phrase, and the examples showcase how it adds weight to the subject's goals.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "substantial ambition" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a significant level of aspiration. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, it's relatively rare, appearing most often in news and encyclopedic contexts. Alternatives like "considerable aspiration" or "significant drive" may suit different nuances. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the formality of your context, as simpler terms might be more appropriate for casual conversation. Despite its infrequent usage, "substantial ambition" effectively conveys a noteworthy degree of aspiration, highlighting the importance of goals.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

considerable aspiration

Replaces "ambition" with "aspiration", maintaining a similar level of intensity and scope.

high aspirations

A more straightforward alternative, replacing "substantial" with "high".

significant drive

Substitutes "ambition" with "drive", focusing on the motivational aspect.

notable aspirations

Uses "notable" instead of "substantial", highlighting the recognizability of the ambition.

major aspirations

Describes ambitions as large-scale.

marked determination

Emphasizes the resolve associated with pursuing ambitious goals.

pronounced eagerness

Focuses on the enthusiasm and eagerness to achieve significant objectives.

remarkable initiative

Highlights the proactive approach taken to realize ambitious plans.

strong resolve

Emphasizes firmness and determination in the pursuit of a goal.

serious intent

Shifts the focus to the seriousness and purposefulness behind the ambition.

FAQs

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

You can use "substantial ambition" to describe someone's strong desire to achieve significant goals. For example: "Her "substantial ambition" to become a doctor led her to study tirelessly."

What are some alternatives to "substantial ambition"?

Alternatives include "considerable aspiration", "significant drive", or "high aspirations". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "substantial ambition" or "great ambition"?

Both "substantial ambition" and "great ambition" are correct. "Substantial" implies a more measurable or considerable amount, while "great" suggests a more general sense of magnitude. The choice depends on the specific shade of meaning you intend.

What does it mean to have "substantial ambition"?

To have "substantial ambition" means to possess a significant and considerable level of desire and motivation to achieve important or impactful goals. It suggests a strong drive and commitment to realizing one's aspirations.