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Strive

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. To make great efforts or exert oneself vigorously towards achieving a goal or overcoming difficulties.
2. To struggle or fight in a determined manner in order to succeed or improve.
3. To work hard or endeavor to attain something or reach a desired result.
4. To aim for something with persistent and focused effort.

History and Origin

The word “strive” comes from the Old French estriver or striver, which means “to quarrel” or “to struggle.” It traces further back to the Latin strivare, meaning “to fight” or “to strive.” The word entered English in the late Middle Ages and was initially used to describe a struggle or conflict, but over time, its meaning expanded to include any determined effort or striving towards success, not just in the context of fighting.

Detailed Explanation

To “strive” means to put in considerable effort to achieve something, especially when the goal is difficult or challenging. It often implies a continuous and persistent effort, despite setbacks or difficulties. People who strive tend to be driven by a goal or ambition and work hard over time to accomplish it. Striving may involve long hours, overcoming obstacles, and maintaining focus. The word is commonly used in both personal and professional contexts, such as striving for academic success, striving for fitness goals, or striving to improve skills. While striving involves hard work, it also carries a sense of determination and persistence to overcome adversity.

Example Sentences

1. She strives to improve her skills every day through practice and dedication.
2. The company strives for excellence in customer service and innovation.
3. He strives to be the best athlete in his team, pushing himself every day.
4. They continue to strive for equality and justice for all people.
5. The teacher encouraged her students to strive for success in their studies.
6. Despite many challenges, he strives to maintain a positive attitude.
7. The organization strives to reduce poverty and improve living conditions worldwide.
8. She has always strived for perfection in her work, even when it seemed impossible.
9. We must all strive to protect the environment for future generations.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Endeavor – To make a serious and determined effort to achieve something.
2. Struggle – To exert effort in the face of difficulties or challenges, often used in the context of overcoming obstacles.
3. Aspire – To have a strong desire or ambition to achieve something, especially a lofty goal.
4. Attempt – To make an effort to achieve something, often despite challenges or potential failure.
5. Work – To put in effort or labor towards achieving a goal or completing a task.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Ambition – A strong desire to achieve something, often driving one to strive toward goals.
2. Perseverance – The continued effort to do or achieve something despite difficulties, similar to striving.
3. Determination – Firmness of purpose, driving someone to strive for their goals.
4. Commitment – The state of being dedicated to achieving something, often involving striving toward it.
5. Focus – The concentration of energy and effort on a specific goal, a key part of striving for success.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Push – To make a strong effort toward achieving something, especially when facing resistance.
2. Labor – Physical or mental work put into achieving a goal, often involving striving and persistence.
3. Persist – To continue striving despite obstacles, indicating determination and persistence.
4. Challenge – A difficult task or goal that requires striving to overcome.
5. Exert – To apply effort or energy toward achieving a goal, often in the context of striving.

Antonyms

1. Surrender
2. Quit
3. Give up
4. Idle
5. Laziness