What does strive mean?
Strive means to make a serious, determined effort toward a goal, especially when the goal requires persistence. It is commonly followed by “for” when the desired result is a noun and by “to” before an infinitive, as in “strive for equality” and “strive to improve.” The word can also describe competition or struggle against opposition. Unlike “try,” which may refer to a single effort or a casual attempt, “strive” suggests continuing determination and sustained effort. It does not guarantee success: someone may strive for a promotion without receiving one. In phrases such as “strive to thrive,” the word emphasizes purposeful action, while “thrive” refers more specifically to flourishing or prospering. Strive is appropriate in formal writing, journalism, education, and motivational contexts, and its tone is generally earnest and positive.
verbTo make a determined effort toward a goal or in the face of difficulty. It can also mean to compete or struggle against opposition.
- Make a determined or sustained effort toward a goal.
- Compete or struggle against difficulty, opposition, or adverse circumstances.
"She continued to strive for excellence despite the many obstacles she faced."
"The committee strived to reach a fair agreement before the deadline."
"Local businesses have striven to thrive despite rising costs."
Strive emphasizes the effort itself, not necessarily the outcome: a person can strive for a goal without achieving it.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of strive
The verb comes from Old English strīfan, meaning to strive or contend, and entered Middle English in that general sense. It is associated with a Germanic root that also underlies words related to effort and conflict. The related English noun “strife” developed from the same historical family of meanings, referring to conflict or contentious struggle.
Related word forms
How strive is actually used
Strive is formal but widely used. It often suggests sustained, purposeful effort, and can carry a mildly aspirational or determined connotation. In constructions such as “strive to,” it may imply that the objective is desirable or expected.
Easily confused with strive
To strive is to make an earnest effort, while to thrive is to prosper or flourish, often as a result of that effort.