aspiration
/ˌæspəˈɹeɪʃən/
A strong desire to achieve something high or great. It carries a sense of upward movement—both literally (breathing in) and figuratively (climbing toward a goal). Unlike "ambition," which can sometimes feel aggressive or cold, aspiration often feels more noble, idealistic, and hopeful. In a medical context, it refers to the act of drawing fluid out of the body or the accidental inhalation of foreign matter into the lungs. This technical usage is clinical and neutral, devoid of the emotional weight found in the psychological sense. Usage typically occurs in formal or semi-formal contexts, such as career planning, personal growth discussions, or medical reports. It suggests a long-term vision rather than a short-term want.
Countable when referring to specific goals or dreams (e.g., I have many aspirations for my career). Uncountable when referring to the general quality of being ambitious (e.g., The youth of today are full of aspiration).
💬Casual Conversation
So what are your career aspirations shaping up to be?
My current aspiration is just to not adult today. And pay rent.
Meanings
A strong desire to achieve something high or great.
"Her aspiration to become a surgeon drove her to study late every night."
The action of drawing breath into the lungs.
"The patient showed shallow aspiration during the exam."
The production of a breathy sound when pronouncing a consonant.
"The English p in pit has a strong aspiration."
Collocations & Compounds
life aspiration
A goal or ambition that someone wants to achieve during their life.
Her main life aspiration was to become a doctor.
career aspiration
A goal or ambition related to one's professional life.
He discussed his career aspirations with his mentor.
personal aspiration
An ambition or hope that an individual has for themselves.
She set aside time to reflect on her personal aspirations.
burning aspiration
A very strong and intense ambition.
His burning aspiration was to win a gold medal.
unfulfilled aspiration
An ambition or hope that has not been realized.
Many of his early dreams remained unfulfilled aspirations.
Etymology
The word 'aspiration' comes from the Latin word 'aspirare', meaning 'to breathe upon' or 'to blow towards'. It entered English in the 15th century, initially referring to the act of breathing or a faint sound of breathing. By the 17th century, its meaning shifted to encompass a strong desire or hope for something, particularly for fame, wealth, or advancement, reflecting the idea of 'breathing towards' a goal.