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ambitious

/ˈæmbɪʃəs/
adjective★Intermediate
formal

Having a strong desire and determination to succeed and achieve goals

The ambitious entrepreneur launched three startups before turning 30.

The determined entrepreneur, driven by a strong desire to succeed, started three businesses before reaching 30.

💡

Often used to describe people who are driven and goal-oriented.

Collocations

ambitious goalschallenging objectivesambitious projecta large, complex undertakingambitious plana detailed and far-reaching strategy

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

ambitious plansphrase
detailed and far-reaching strategies
ambitious goalsphrase
challenging objectives

💡Pro Tip

Positive vs. Negative Connotation

While 'ambitious' often describes drive and determination, it can sometimes imply arrogance or overconfidence. Context matters.

⚡Gold Rule

Context Matters

Use 'ambitious' to describe someone who is driven and goal-oriented, but be aware of potential negative connotations in certain contexts.

📖Word Origin

From Latin 'ambitiosus', meaning 'going around' or 'seeking office', from 'ambire' (to go around) + '-osus' (full of).

📝Usage Notes

Can be used positively to describe drive and determination, but may sometimes imply excessive ambition or arrogance.

Word Breakdown

ambi-
around
prefix
+
-tiosus
full of
suffix
English Dictionary

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