ambition
/æmˈbɪ.ʃən/
A strong desire to achieve success, power, or wealth. It represents a forward-leaning psychic energy—a drive that pushes an individual toward a specific goal of self-improvement or social ascent.
While often viewed as a positive trait of leadership and productivity, it carries a latent negative connotation of ruthlessness or greed. When described as "blind ambition," it suggests a willingness to sacrifice ethics or relationships for the sake of status.
Unlike 'aspiration,' which is more idealistic and hopeful, ambition implies a more active, strategic pursuit. It differs from 'determination' in that ambition focuses on the target (the prize), whereas determination focuses on the persistence required to get there.
💬Casual Conversation
Did David just pitch another 'game-changing' feature?
Did David just pitch another 'game-changing' feature?
His ambition is going to run us all into the ground.
His ambition is going to run us all into the ground.
Meanings
Examples
Her ambition is to become the CEO of the company.
The young athlete had the ambition of winning an Olympic gold medal.
His relentless ambition helped him climb the corporate ladder quickly.
Collocations & Compounds
burning ambition
A very strong desire to achieve something.
She had a burning ambition to become a doctor.
unbridled ambition
Ambition that is not controlled or restrained.
His unbridled ambition often led him to make ruthless decisions.
political ambition
The desire to gain power or influence in politics.
His political ambition was clear from a young age.
career ambition
The desire to achieve success and advancement in one's work.
Her career ambition drove her to work long hours.
childhood ambition
A goal or desire held during one's early years.
His childhood ambition was to be an astronaut.
Idioms & Sayings
eat with ambition
To eat with great enthusiasm and eagerness.
He attacked the meal he hadn't eaten all day with ambition.
measure of ambition
A standard or indication of someone's level of desire to succeed.
His success in business was a clear measure of ambition.
Etymology
The word 'ambition' comes from the Latin word 'ambitio,' which originally meant 'a going around' or 'soliciting votes.' This stemmed from the practice in ancient Rome where political candidates would literally walk around their districts, shaking hands and seeking support. Over time, the meaning shifted from the act of seeking public office to the desire or drive to achieve it, and eventually broadened to encompass any strong desire for success, power, or achievement.