What does striving mean?
Striving means making a determined, sustained effort toward a goal, especially when the goal is difficult to reach or obstacles must be overcome. As a noun, it can refer either to the general activity of trying hard or to a particular campaign of effort: someone may describe a “striving for peace” or a “constant striving for improvement.” The word is common in formal and literary contexts, as well as in discussions of education, work, art, and personal development. It usually implies more determination and endurance than a simple attempt, and its tone may be approving, especially when the effort is directed toward something admirable. In its participial use, “striving” describes someone or something actively trying to reach a goal or overcome difficulty.
The act of making a determined or sustained effort toward a goal, especially in the face of difficulty.
"The campaign was driven by her continual striving for greater equality."
Often formal; it emphasizes persistent effort rather than a single attempt.
The present participle of “strive,” meaning making a determined effort toward a goal or against difficulty.
"The young athletes are striving to improve with each performance."
Used as the present participle of “strive,” functioning as a verb form or participial modifier.
The plural is grammatically possible but uncommon; singular usage is usually preferred.
"Her artistic strivings led her to experiment with entirely new forms."
Striving is more than simply trying: it carries the sense of sustained, determined effort directed toward something difficult or important.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does striving come from?
“Striving” comes from the English verb “strive,” which has Old French and Old Norse origins and is related to words expressing effort or exertion. The present-participle form “striving” has long been used both to describe an activity in progress and, as a noun, to name the effort itself.
Related word forms
How striving is actually used
As a noun, “striving” is usually somewhat formal and suggests sustained, purposeful effort rather than a single attempt. It can carry a positive, admirable connotation, as in praise of someone's striving for excellence, but it can also suggest effort that is difficult, unfulfilled, or socially competitive.