ambition Definition
- 1a strong desire to do or achieve something, typically requiring determination and hard work
- 2a desire and determination to be successful, famous, or powerful
Using ambition: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "ambition" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Her ambition is to become a doctor.
Example
He has always had a great ambition to climb Mount Everest.
Example
She pursued her ambition of becoming an actress.
Example
His political ambitions were thwarted by scandal.
ambition Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for ambition
- aspiration
- aim
- dream
- goal
- objective
Antonyms for ambition
- apathy
- indifference
Idioms Using ambition
have designs on something
have ambitious plans or intentions for something
Example
He has designs on becoming the CEO of the company one day.
reach for the stars
set one's goals or ambitions very high
Example
She's always been one to reach for the stars, never settling for less than she wants.
climb the ladder
work one's way up through a hierarchy or organization
Example
He started as an intern and worked his way up the ladder to become the CEO.
Phrases with ambition
ambition to succeed
the desire and determination to achieve success in one's endeavors
Example
She has an ambition to succeed in the business world.
the desire and determination to surpass others in one's field or area of expertise
Example
He has an ambition to excel in his academic studies.
ambition to lead
the desire and determination to hold a position of power or authority
Example
His ambition to lead the company was evident from an early age.
Origins of ambition
from Latin 'ambitio', meaning 'a going around (to solicit votes)'
Summary: ambition in Brief
The term 'ambition' [æmˈbɪʃən] refers to a strong desire to achieve something, often requiring determination and hard work. It can denote a desire for success, fame, or power, as in 'Her ambition is to become a doctor.' 'Ambition' extends into phrases like 'ambition to succeed,' and idioms like 'reach for the stars,' denoting setting high goals. 'Climb the ladder' denotes working one's way up through a hierarchy or organization.
