The term “ambitious” is often used to describe someone who is driven, determined, and has a strong desire to achieve their goals. The word has various meanings and associations depending on the context in which it is used. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of the term “ambitious.”.
Definitions
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the term “ambitious” means having or showing a strong desire and determination to succeed. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines it as having a desire to achieve a particular goal or objective.
Origin
The word “ambitious” comes from the Latin word “ambitiosus,” which means “eagerly desirous of honor or preferment.” The term was first used in English in the 14th century.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of the term “ambitious” is relatively consistent across different dictionaries. It generally refers to someone who is driven, determined, and has a strong desire to achieve their goals.
Associations
The term “ambitious” is often associated with positive qualities such as drive, determination, and hard work. However, it can also have negative associations, such as being overly competitive, ruthless, or selfish.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of “ambitious” include driven, determined, motivated, goal-oriented, and aspiring.
Antonyms
Antonyms of “ambitious” include lazy, unmotivated, content, and satisfied.
The same root words
The same root words as “ambitious” include ambition, which refers to a strong desire to achieve something, and ambit, which refers to the scope or range of something.
Example Sentences
- She was an ambitious young woman who dreamed of becoming a successful business owner.
- His ambitious plans for the company were met with skepticism by his colleagues.
- The politician’s ambitious campaign promises were met with both praise and criticism.
In conclusion, the term “ambitious” refers to someone who is driven, determined, and has a strong desire to achieve their goals. While it is often associated with positive qualities, it can also have negative connotations depending on the context in which it is used. Understanding the meaning and associations of this term is essential for effective communication and interpersonal relationships.