What is striving? Pronunciation and usage in English

striving means . Learn how to pronounce and use striving through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of striving

strivingnoun

/ˈstraɪvɪŋ//ˈstraɪvɪŋ/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "striving." It's a tricky one for some learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllable Breakdown:

  • striv - This is the core of the word.
  • ing - The -ing suffix.

2. Pronunciation:

  • striv: Think "strip" but with a slightly more emphasized “ri” sound. It's similar to the word "script" but shorter. The "r" is a little bit rolled, but not a super heavy roll.

    • “st” - Pronounced like "st" in "stop"
    • “riv” - This is the key. It sounds like “reev,” almost like “rive” but shorter and with a slightly softer "v" sound. It's not like the "riv" in "river."

  • ing: Pronounced just like in "sing" or "ring."

Putting it together:

It's roughly: “strip-veev” – with a little roll on the “r” in “striv”.

Tips & Resources:

  • Listen to native speakers: This is the best way to learn. Here are some options:

  • Record Yourself: Record yourself saying the word and compare it to a native speaker.

To summarize, the sound is roughly "strip-veev" with a gentle “r” roll.

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word "striving"?

Usage and examples with the word striving in English

Let's break down how to use the word "striving" in English. It's a powerful word that suggests effort and persistent work towards a goal. Here's a comprehensive guide:

1. Basic Meaning & Form:

  • Striving is the present participle (verb form) of the verb "to strive." It means "making great effort" or "working hard." It's always used with a helping verb – typically "to be" (am, is, are, was, were) or "to have" (have, has, had).

2. Common Sentence Structures:

  • “He is striving to…” (most common) – This indicates an ongoing effort.
    • Example: “He is striving to learn Spanish.”
    • Example: “She is striving to improve her fitness.”
  • “She was striving for…” – Indicates past efforts.
    • Example: "She was striving for a promotion at work.”
  • “They are striving to achieve…” – Emphasizes the goal.
    • Example: “They are striving to achieve world peace.”
  • “He has been striving…” – Suggests a long-term effort.
    • Example: “He has been striving to overcome his addiction for years.”

3. Nuances & Connotations:

  • Persistence & Determination: “Striving” implies more than just trying. It suggests a willingness to push through difficulties and keep going despite challenges.
  • Serious Effort: It's a stronger word than “trying” or “working.” It conveys a sense of dedication.
  • Often Associated with Difficult Goals: "Striving" often appears in contexts of ambitious or difficult aims. It's not used for routine tasks.

4. Examples in Context:

  • Positive Examples:

    • “The scientists are striving to develop a cure for the disease.”
    • “The charity is striving to provide aid to those in need.”
    • “Our company is striving for innovation in the tech industry.”
    • “He is striving to be a better father.”

  • More Complex/Figurative Examples:

    • “The nation is striving towards equality and justice.” (Implies overcoming significant obstacles)
    • "The young artist is striving to find her unique voice." (Suggests a challenging creative process)

5. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings):

  • Attempting
  • Endeavoring
  • Working hard
  • Pursuing
  • Seeking
  • Aspiring

6. Things to Avoid:

  • Don't use "striving" for simple, routine actions. "Trying" is usually better in those cases.
    • Incorrect: “He is striving to make a cup of coffee.” (Better: "He is trying to make a cup of coffee.”)

Quick Tips for Using "Striving":

  • Focus on the effort: The core of "striving" is the effort being made.
  • Highlight the goal: Often, it's used in relation to a specific desired outcome.
  • Consider the impact: It suggests a serious, determined attempt toward something significant.

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What specifically are you hoping to use “striving” in? (e.g., a writing project, a conversation, a particular topic?)

Synonyms for the word striving

Practice with vocabulary striving

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The research team is constantly _______ for groundbreaking discoveries in renewable energy.
  2. Her ultimate career goal is _______ to become a senior project manager within five years.
  3. Despite the economic downturn, many small businesses are _______ to adapt and maintain their market share.
  4. Successful entrepreneurs often attribute their achievements to relentless hard work and a clear _______ of purpose.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Many developing nations are _______ to improve their infrastructure and quality of life for their citizens. A) endeavoring B) resigning C) striving D) surrendering E) competing

  2. In a highly competitive market, the startup is _______ to establish its brand identity and secure market share. A) struggling B) relaxing C) contending D) striving E) settling

  3. The university encourages its students to be constantly _______ for academic excellence and personal growth. A) aiming B) striving C) settling D) giving up E) aspiring

  4. After years of dedication, she finally _______ her goal of becoming a published author. A) achieved B) attained C) reached D) aspired E) strived

  5. Effective communication is _______ for successful team collaboration in any project. A) essential B) trivial C) optional D) crucial E) unimportant

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Their continuous hard work aims at achieving excellence in customer service. (Rewrite using a form of "striving")

  2. Despite numerous setbacks, the team never stopped making an effort to meet the tight deadline. (Rewrite using a form of "striving")

  3. It is important to always try your best to improve your skills in a professional setting. (Rewrite using a suitable replacement word, but not "striving")

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. striving
  2. aspiring
  3. striving
  4. sense

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. A) endeavoring, C) striving
  2. A) struggling, C) contending, D) striving
  3. A) aiming, B) striving, E) aspiring
  4. A) achieved, B) attained, C) reached
  5. A) essential, D) crucial

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. They are striving for excellence in customer service through continuous hard work.
  2. Despite numerous setbacks, the team was constantly striving to meet the tight deadline.
  3. It is important to always endeavor to improve your skills in a professional setting.

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