Strive
/straɪv/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo make great efforts to achieve or obtain something; to struggle or fight vigorously.
/straɪv/
To make great efforts to achieve or obtain something.
The athlete strived to break the world record.
💡 Simply: Imagine you have a big goal, like learning to play the guitar. Strive means you work really hard and don't give up until you reach your goal! It’s like pushing yourself to get better.
👶 For kids: Trying super hard to do something!
More Examples
We must strive for peace in the world.
They are striving to overcome the challenges.
How It's Used
"Companies strive to improve customer satisfaction."
"Students strive for academic excellence."
"She strives to be a better person every day."
To contend or vie in rivalry or competition; to struggle in competition with another.
/straɪv/
To contend or vie in rivalry or competition.
The two teams were striving for first place.
💡 Simply: Striving can also mean competing to win something, like two teams striving for the championship trophy.
👶 For kids: To try really hard to win a game or contest!
More Examples
Many companies strive for a better market share.
The opponents were striving for power.
How It's Used
"The candidates strove for the presidency."
"The teams strove for victory."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
strive against the current
To work against strong opposition or difficult circumstances.
"He felt like he was striving against the current in his efforts to change the company's culture."
From Old French *estriver* ('to struggle, contend'), ultimately from a Vulgar Latin root related to the Proto-Germanic *strībaną ('to rub, stroke').
Used since the 13th century, often in religious and moral contexts, implying a dedication to a higher purpose or ideal.
Memory tip
Imagine a swimmer striving through strong currents towards the finish line.
Word Origin
"to struggle, contend"