Definitions

strive

[strahyv] / straɪv /

VERB

try for, exert oneself

Synonyms

STRONGEST

aim endeavor go all out seek tackle

STRONG

assay attempt compete contend drive essay fight hassle jockey labor moil offer push scramble strain struggle sweat toil tug work

WEAK

bear down bend over backward break one's neck do one's best do one's utmost go after go for broke go for the jugular go the limit knock oneself out leave no stone unturned make every effort shoot for take on try hard

Antonyms

STRONGEST

neglect

STRONG

agree discourage dissuade idle laze make peace relax repress rest surrender yield

WEAK

forget skip

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Any malfeasance should be punished, and the system should always strive to improve.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 4, 2026

“It is essential that we preserve what is good about these institutions, even as we strive to improve them,” he said.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 1, 2026

Comprehensive peace in the region is an admirable goal, one that the U.S. should strive toward.

From Barron's • May 28, 2026

"Doing the right thing has always been my motivation and will strive to get things done without diversion or delay", he said.

From BBC • May 16, 2026

His is a tree I strive to fall increasingly farther from.

From "Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman

Vocabulary lists containing strive

The Watsons Go to Birmingham

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

"The Story of an Hour" by Kate Chopin

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

"The Hill We Climb," by Amanda Gorman

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!