thrive on

USAGE SUMMARY

"thrive on" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that something is being positively and actively supported by another factor. For example: "The business has managed to thrive on the positive feedback from their customers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Markets thrive on it.

The Economist

"I thrive on it".

The New York Times

We thrive on that".

The New York Times - Sports

Marriages thrive on stories.

The New Yorker

I thrive on the pressure".

Independent

Both thrive on the Internet.

The Economist

I thrive on squalor".

The Guardian - Music

"I thrive on that.

The New York Times - Sports

"They thrive on it.

The New York Times

"They thrive on speed.

The New York Times

Banks thrive on leverage.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "thrive on" to describe situations where something not only survives but actively benefits and grows stronger as a result of specific conditions or inputs. For instance, "Businesses thrive on innovation".

Common error

Avoid using "thrive on" when the source is detrimental in the long term. For example, while a company might temporarily benefit from unethical practices, it would be inaccurate to say they "thrive on" them if those practices lead to eventual downfall.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "thrive on" functions as a phrasal verb, indicating that a subject benefits greatly and develops positively due to something. As Ludwig AI suggests, it expresses active and positive support from one factor to another. The examples show its use in describing how various entities, from markets to individuals, prosper under specific conditions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

14%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

4%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "thrive on" is a commonly used phrasal verb that indicates something benefits and grows stronger due to specific conditions. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It’s versatile, appearing frequently in news, media, and business contexts. To ensure correct usage, remember that ""thrive on"" implies a positive relationship where the source actively supports the subject's development. Alternatives like "flourish on" or "prosper from" can add nuance, but ""thrive on"" remains a reliable and widely understood choice for expressing beneficial relationships.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

flourish on

Emphasizes vigorous growth and prosperity.

prosper from

Highlights gaining wealth or success as a result of something.

benefit from

Focuses on receiving advantages or positive outcomes.

excel with

Stresses outstanding performance or achievement in specific conditions.

relish in

Indicates enjoying something intensely and drawing positive energy from it.

gain strength from

Highlights the act of becoming stronger or more resilient due to something.

capitalize on

Focuses on taking advantage of opportunities for success.

feed on

Implies deriving sustenance or energy, often in a metaphorical sense.

draw energy from

Emphasizes obtaining vitality or enthusiasm from a particular source.

find fulfillment in

Highlights satisfaction and positive emotions gained from an activity or situation.

FAQs

How can I use "thrive on" in a sentence?

Use "thrive on" to describe how something benefits from a specific condition or input. For instance, "Plants "thrive on" sunlight" or "Some people "thrive on" challenges".

What are some alternatives to using "thrive on"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "flourish on", "prosper from", or "benefit from" to convey similar meanings.

Is it correct to say "survive on" instead of "thrive on"?

While "survive on" implies managing to exist or continue, ""thrive on"" suggests actively benefiting and growing stronger. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize mere survival or positive growth.

What's the difference between "thrive on" and "depend on"?

"Depend on" indicates reliance or necessity, while ""thrive on"" implies positive benefit and growth. You depend on essential resources but "thrive on" stimulating environments.