strive

To strive means to make a great effort to achieve something. It is more than just trying because it suggests steady effort, even when things are hard. Think of a climber working to reach the top of a mountain, pushing on through wind and exhaustion with every step. Or an artist reaching for excellence in their craft, improving their work again and again. You might strive for success, happiness, or simply to become a better person. It is about giving your energy and focus to a goal.

The word is often used to describe the human spirit at its strongest. A famous example comes from Lord Tennyson's poem Ulysses, where the aging hero resolves "To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield." It suggests that even when the odds are against us, this kind of effort gives life a sense of purpose. Whether you are facing problems in the world around you or doubts inside yourself, to strive is to keep going without giving up.

The word "strive" describes a vigorous and determined effort to achieve something, often in the face of significant obstacles or challenges. It goes beyond a simple wish; it implies active, persistent exertion and a refusal to settle for "good enough." Imagine a young musician striving for recognition, practicing tirelessly despite rejection after rejection. That is the essence of striving.

"Strive" isn't reserved only for grand ambitions or monumental achievements. You can strive to improve your health, strive to maintain a positive attitude, or even strive to be more patient with your loved ones. It suggests a conscious, ongoing commitment to growth and self-improvement. It is a word of movement and energy, contrasting with stagnation or passivity.

The word carries an inherent sense of struggle. It acknowledges that the path to a meaningful goal is rarely smooth. You will often read about communities striving for social justice, scientists striving for medical breakthroughs, or individuals striving to overcome personal hardships. In each case, the word highlights the labor involved in the process.

Historically, "strive" entered the English language through Old French (estriver), originally meaning "to quarrel" or "to contend." This origin highlights the sense of "fighting against" something—whether that be an opponent, a difficult circumstance, or one's own limitations. Today, it remains a powerful word that emphasizes determination, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of what matters most, even when the path is steep.