Understanding the Meaning and Nuance of "Strive"
We all have goals that pull us forward. Whether you are aiming for a promotion, trying to learn a new language, or simply looking to become a kinder person, you are likely putting in a great deal of work to get there. In English, when we describe this persistent, focused effort, we often use the word strive. It is a powerful verb that implies not just doing a task, but putting your heart and soul into overcoming obstacles to reach a higher level of achievement.
The Origins and Evolution of Strive
To understand the depth of the word, it helps to look at its history. The word comes from the Old French estriver, which originally meant "to quarrel" or "to dispute." Interestingly, it shares the same roots as the word strife, which refers to conflict or struggle. Over the course of eight centuries, the meaning of strive evolved. While it still involves a form of conflict, it shifted from fighting with other people to a more internal journey. Today, to strive is to battle your own limitations, pushing past comfort zones to reach a goal despite any outside friction.
How to Use Strive in a Sentence
As a verb, strive is used to describe an attempt made with significant effort. It suggests a high level of dedication and persistence. Here are the three primary ways it functions:
- As an attempt with effort: "The company strives to provide the best customer service in the industry."
- Exerting energy: "Even when the project became difficult, the team continued to strive toward the deadline."
- Fighting against opposition: "History shows us that heroes often strive against injustice, even when the odds are stacked against them."
Common Grammar Patterns
When using strive, keep these grammatical structures in mind:
- Strive + for + noun: "We all strive for success in our chosen fields."
- Strive + to + infinitive: "Students should strive to learn something new every single day."
Note that the past tense of strive can be strove (or strived), and the past participle is striven (or strived). For example: "I have striven for balance my entire career."
Common Mistakes
Even native speakers occasionally mix up the usage of strive. Here are a few things to avoid:
- Overuse: Because "strive" is a formal and somewhat poetic word, avoid using it for trivial tasks. You wouldn't say, "I am striving to open this jar of pickles." Instead, save it for long-term, meaningful goals.
- Confusing it with "Strive for": Ensure you use the right preposition. You strive for a goal, but you strive to complete an action. You cannot "strive a goal."
- Irregular Tense Confusion: Many learners worry about whether to use strived or strove. Both are acceptable in modern English, though striven is the preferred past participle in formal writing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "strive" a formal word?
Yes, strive is generally considered formal. It is excellent for professional emails, essays, and speeches, but you might find it sounds a bit too intense for casual conversation.
What is the difference between "strive" and "try"?
"Try" is a general word for attempting something. "Strive" implies a much higher level of dedication, long-term commitment, and a sense of moral or professional purpose.
Can you "strive" without a goal?
Not really. The nature of the word implies that you are reaching toward something. If you are just putting in effort without a clear target, other words like "working" or "laboring" might fit better.
Conclusion
The word strive captures the essence of human ambition. It reminds us that progress is not always easy and that reaching our potential requires consistent, determined action. By incorporating this word into your vocabulary, you can better articulate the intensity and passion behind your own pursuits. Whether you are striving for a better future or striving to master a new skill, keep pushing forward—that is exactly what the word is all about.