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adj Uncommon

aspiring

Aspiring (adj) means hoping or working to become something, typically used before a profession or role. Example: “She's an aspiring novelist working on her first book.”

adj
1
Hoping or working to become something, typically used before a profession or role.
"She's an aspiring novelist working on her first book."
"The workshop is aimed at aspiring entrepreneurs."

How to use aspiring

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDescribes someone actively working toward a goal or future role, but not there yet.

Common pairings
aspiring writer aspiring actor aspiring entrepreneur

Word forms

aspirings plural

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

She's an _____ novelist working on her first book.

hopeful budding would-be up-and-coming prospective

Related words

Rhymes for aspiring

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Frequently asked questions

What does “aspiring” mean?

The word “aspiring” means hoping or working to become something, typically used before a profession or role. In plain terms, describes someone actively working toward a goal or future role, but not there yet.

How do you use “aspiring” in a sentence?

Here is “aspiring” used in a sentence: “She's an aspiring novelist working on her first book.”

What part of speech is “aspiring”?

“Aspiring” is an adjective.

Is “aspiring” a common word?

“Aspiring” is an uncommon word in modern English.

What is the difference between aspiring and ambitious?

Aspiring specifically describes someone hoping or working toward a particular profession or role, such as an "aspiring actor." Ambitious describes a broader drive for success or achievement that isn't necessarily tied to a specific goal.

How is aspiring typically used in a sentence structure?

Aspiring is typically placed directly before a noun describing a profession or role, such as "aspiring writer" or "aspiring doctor." This pattern signals someone who is working toward becoming that thing but has not yet fully achieved it.

Is aspiring used for people who have already achieved their goal?

No, aspiring describes someone who is hoping or working to become something, meaning they have not yet reached that status. Once the goal is achieved, the word aspiring no longer applies.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial