Synonym Chooser

How is the word aspiration different from other nouns like it?

The words ambition and pretension are common synonyms of aspiration. While all three words mean "strong desire for advancement," aspiration implies a striving after something higher than oneself.

an aspiration to become president someday

When is it sensible to use ambition instead of aspiration?

Although the words ambition and aspiration have much in common, ambition applies to the desire for personal advancement or preferment and may suggest equally a praiseworthy or an inordinate desire.

driven by ambition

In what contexts can pretension take the place of aspiration?

While in some cases nearly identical to aspiration, pretension suggests ardent desire for recognition of accomplishment often without actual possession of the necessary ability and therefore may imply presumption.

has literary pretensions

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of aspiration Broadcasting aspirations watch now Curry has used his venture Unanimous Media to springboard a career in front of the camera. Alex Sherman, CNBC, 2 June 2025 Enforcing work obligations ensured the ready availability of low-wage labor and supported the growing assumption that only paid labor could redeem the lives and aspirations of the poor. Colin Gordon, The Conversation, 29 May 2025 Fine needle aspiration is a common way to obtain fluid and cells for diagnosis. Angela Ryan Lee, Verywell Health, 29 May 2025 However, for this to succeed and to accomplish the country’s growth aspirations, the government will have to introduce significant reforms designed at making the economy more productive, competitive, and inclusive. Vasuki Shastry, Forbes.com, 24 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for aspiration
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aspiration
Noun
  • That evolution mirrors trends seen in other fragile states where the rule of law has eroded — but with one key difference: Venezuela’s criminal strategy is explicitly transnational, with ambitions that extend far beyond its borders.
    Antonio Maria Delgado, Miami Herald, 29 May 2025
  • SpaceX kicked off the year with the ambition to launch as many as 25 Starship test flights in 2025, a goal that now seems to be unattainable.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 28 May 2025
Noun
  • But Bennett’s goal would not keep the Panthers ahead for long.
    Adam Lichtenstein, Sun Sentinel, 7 June 2025
  • The goal being to have 30 teams all in a position, if well-managed, to be competing for championships.
    Sam Amick, New York Times, 6 June 2025
Noun
  • This was still wild country, and Fuller set off with the express purpose of producing a book about her journey.
    James Marcus, New Yorker, 2 June 2025
  • These rituals included a physical action, an emotional expression and a shared sense of purpose.
    Vibhas Ratanjee, Forbes.com, 2 June 2025
Noun
  • Part of the aim of the acquisition is to expand those offerings around the globe.
    Gene Maddaus, Variety, 2 June 2025
  • The initial aim of the technology is to help patients with severe paralysis restore some independence.
    Ashley Capoot, CNBC, 2 June 2025
Noun
  • The Democratic governor said that a plan to regulate cannabis in the state is needed to protect children, who can often obtain intoxicating hemp products without restrictions.
    A.J. Herrington, Forbes.com, 5 June 2025
  • Some health insurance plans will cover naloxone, and some state and local health departments may give out this medication free of charge.
    Katia Hetter, CNN Money, 5 June 2025
Noun
  • Wealth doesn’t just happen; it is built with intention.
    Melissa Houston, Forbes.com, 1 June 2025
  • The dress moves like a line thought out to the end, firmly, with intention, leaving no room for excess.
    Alex Sales, Glamour, 31 May 2025
Noun
  • As with everything Banksy, siting and context are chief among the avenues of investigation into the man’s intent and into his his hilariously ruthless nocturnal execution of his art.
    Guy Martin, Forbes.com, 30 May 2025
  • Smith was charged with violation of probation, possession of narcotics, possession of narcotics with intent to sell and interfering with police.
    Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 29 May 2025
Noun
  • Sarah, 28, started searching online for low-key reveal ideas.
    Jordan Greene, People.com, 4 June 2025
  • But, these beverages aren't always a good idea—here's what to consider before you order.
    Alice Oglethorpe, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Aspiration.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aspiration. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on aspiration

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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