strive
13 synonyms for strive, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To make a great and sustained effort to achieve something.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
exert oneself
&c. one's nose to the grindstone
put one's back into
give 110%
break one's back
work hard
apply oneself
put one's shoulder to the wheel
How to use strive
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
strive for
strive to achieve
strive towards excellence
Etymology
From Old French estriver ("to compete, quarrel"), from a Frankish root meaning "to exert oneself." The English verb picked up irregular past forms (strove, striven) by analogy with verbs like "drive" and "ride."
Full origin of strive →Frequently asked questions
What does “strive” mean?
The word “strive” means to make a great and sustained effort to achieve something. In plain terms, to try hard and keep trying to reach a goal.
How do you pronounce “strive”?
“Strive” is pronounced STRYV (/ˈstɹaɪv/ in IPA).
How do you use “strive” in a sentence?
Here is “strive” used in a sentence: “She strives to improve her writing with every draft.”
What is another word for “strive”?
Words with a similar meaning to “strive” include put, keep, &c. one's nose to the grindstone, put one's back into, give 110% and break one's back.
What part of speech is “strive”?
“Strive” is a verb.
Where does the word “strive” come from?
The word “strive” comes from Old French. From Old French estriver ("to compete, quarrel"), from a Frankish root meaning "to exert oneself." The English verb picked up irregular past forms (strove, striven) by analogy with verbs like "drive" and "ride.".
Is “strive” a common word?
“Strive” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between strive and try?
Strive implies a great and sustained effort over time toward a meaningful goal, often carrying a sense of struggle or determination. Try is more general and can describe even a brief or casual attempt, without the same intensity or persistence.
Is strive followed by 'to' or 'for'?
Strive can be followed by either, depending on what comes next: use 'strive to' before a verb, as in 'strive to improve,' and 'strive for' before a noun, as in 'strive for excellence.'
Is strive a formal word?
Strive tends to sound more formal or elevated than everyday alternatives like 'try hard' or 'work hard,' making it common in speeches, mission statements, and written goals rather than casual conversation.
