Meaning of the Word
“Ambitious” describes a strong desire and determination to achieve success, goals, or distinction, often requiring effort and perseverance.
Definitions and Meaning in English
- Having a strong determination to succeed or achieve something significant.
- Driven by a desire for recognition, power, wealth, or accomplishment.
- Involving or requiring great effort and determination to accomplish.
- Showing eagerness and motivation to take on challenging tasks or goals.
History and Origin
The word “ambitious” comes from the Latin ambitiosus, meaning “eager for favor or power,” derived from ambitio (a going around, especially for votes or support). It entered English in the late 14th century to describe someone aspiring for honor, power, or high position. Over time, the word’s usage expanded to encompass the drive to achieve personal or professional success.
Detailed Explanation
Ambitious is often used to characterize individuals who set high goals for themselves and are determined to achieve them. It conveys a sense of motivation, aspiration, and drive to excel. Ambition can be seen as a positive trait, leading to personal growth, innovation, and achievement. However, when unchecked, it may lead to overwork, stress, or unethical behavior. The term also applies to projects or plans that are particularly bold, challenging, or visionary.
Example Sentences
- She is an ambitious student who dreams of becoming a doctor.
- The company launched an ambitious plan to expand globally within five years.
- His ambitious nature has earned him several promotions at work.
- Writing a novel in three months is an ambitious goal, but she’s determined to do it.
- They admired his ambitious efforts to create a sustainable energy system.
- The ambitious young entrepreneur pitched her startup idea to investors.
- His ambitious vision for the community included better schools and healthcare.
- Learning five languages might seem ambitious, but he’s already fluent in three.
- The ambitious project to build a space station took years to complete.
Synonyms with Short Explanations
- Aspiring – Having a strong desire to achieve success or excellence.
- Driven – Extremely motivated and determined to achieve a goal.
- Determined – Showing firmness of purpose and resolve to succeed.
- Goal-oriented – Focusing on setting and achieving objectives.
- Visionary – Thinking boldly about future possibilities and goals.
Related Words with Short Explanations
- Motivated – Inspired to take action or work hard toward achieving something.
- Persevering – Demonstrating persistence in pursuing goals despite difficulties.
- Progressive – Constantly striving for improvement and forward movement.
- Hardworking – Dedicated and diligent in pursuing success or goals.
- Innovative – Ambitious in creating or implementing new ideas or solutions.
More Matches with Short Explanations
- Eager – Showing enthusiasm and readiness to achieve something.
- Bold – Taking risks to achieve ambitious outcomes.
- Enterprising – Willing to take initiative and pursue opportunities.
- Overachieving – Exceeding expected standards due to ambition.
- Challenging – Requiring great effort, often aligned with ambitious goals.
Antonyms
- Unmotivated
- Content
- Complacent
- Lazy
- Unaspiring
