Top 40 Slang For Strive – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to achieving goals and pushing through challenges, having the right words can make all the difference. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top slang for strive. Whether you’re looking for motivational phrases or unique ways to express your determination, this list has got you covered. Get ready to be inspired and motivated as we explore the language of perseverance and hard work.

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1. Reach for the stars

This phrase encourages individuals to set high aspirations and work towards achieving them. It implies aiming for the highest level of success.

For example, a motivational speaker might say, “Don’t settle for mediocrity, reach for the stars and follow your dreams.”
In a conversation about career goals, someone might advise, “Don’t be afraid to reach for the stars and apply for that high-level position.”
A coach might inspire their team by saying, “Let’s give it our all and reach for the stars in this championship game.”

2. Aim high

This expression encourages individuals to set ambitious goals and aim for the highest level of achievement.

For instance, a teacher might tell their students, “Aim high in your studies and strive for excellence.”
In a discussion about personal development, someone might say, “Setting goals and aiming high is key to continuous growth.”
A mentor might advise their mentee, “Don’t be afraid to aim high and pursue your passions.”

3. Work your tail off

This phrase emphasizes putting in a tremendous amount of hard work and dedication to achieve a goal or desired outcome.

For example, a coach might say to their team, “If you want to win, you have to work your tail off in every practice and game.”
In a conversation about career success, someone might share, “I worked my tail off to get where I am today, and it paid off.”
A parent might encourage their child by saying, “If you want to succeed, you need to work your tail off and give it your all.”

4. Leave it all on the field

This expression means to give your absolute best effort and leave nothing behind. It is often used in sports to encourage players to give their all during a game or competition.

For instance, a coach might motivate their team by saying, “Leave it all on the field and give 100% in every play.”
In a discussion about personal achievements, someone might share, “I always strive to leave it all on the field and give my best in everything I do.”
An athlete might reflect on a challenging match and say, “I may have lost, but I left it all on the field and have no regrets.”

5. Strive for greatness

This phrase encourages individuals to aim for greatness and strive to achieve extraordinary success.

For example, a motivational speaker might say, “Don’t settle for mediocrity, strive for greatness in all aspects of your life.”
In a conversation about personal growth, someone might advise, “Always strive for greatness and push yourself to reach new heights.”
A mentor might inspire their mentee by saying, “Believe in yourself and strive for greatness, and you’ll achieve remarkable things.”

6. Shoot for the moon

This phrase means to aim high and set lofty aspirations. It encourages individuals to strive for their biggest dreams and not settle for mediocrity.

For example, a motivational speaker might say, “Don’t be afraid to shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.”
A coach might inspire their team by saying, “Let’s go out there and shoot for the moon in this game. Give it your all.”
In a conversation about career aspirations, someone might advise, “If you really want to excel, you have to shoot for the moon and never settle for less.”

7. Work towards your dreams

This phrase emphasizes the importance of taking consistent action and making progress towards one’s dreams and aspirations.

For instance, a mentor might advise their mentee, “Remember, success doesn’t happen overnight. You have to work towards your dreams every day.”
A motivational quote might say, “Don’t just dream, work towards your dreams and make them a reality.”
In a discussion about personal growth, someone might share, “I’ve been working towards my dreams by taking small steps every day.”

8. Put in the effort

This phrase means to give one’s best effort and dedicate oneself to achieving a goal or completing a task.

For example, a coach might tell their team, “If you want to win, you have to put in the effort during practice.”
A teacher might encourage their students by saying, “I can see you’re putting in the effort to improve your grades. Keep up the good work!”
In a conversation about career success, someone might advise, “To achieve your goals, you have to put in the effort and go the extra mile.”

9. Go the extra mile

This phrase means to go above and beyond what is required or expected in order to achieve a desired outcome or provide exceptional results.

For instance, a manager might say, “If you want to stand out, you have to go the extra mile and exceed customer expectations.”
A coworker might compliment another by saying, “I appreciate your willingness to go the extra mile and help out with that project.”
In a discussion about personal growth, someone might share, “I always strive to go the extra mile in my work and personal life to achieve success.”

10. Sweat it out

This phrase means to work hard and put in a significant amount of physical or mental effort towards a task or goal.

For example, a fitness instructor might say, “Come on, let’s sweat it out and give it our all during this workout.”
A student preparing for exams might say, “I need to hit the books and sweat it out to get good grades.”
In a conversation about overcoming challenges, someone might share, “When faced with a difficult situation, I always sweat it out and give it my best effort.”

11. Keep pushing

This phrase is used to encourage someone to persevere and continue working towards their goals.

For example, if someone is facing challenges in their business, you might say, “Keep pushing, success is just around the corner.”
In a sports context, a coach might motivate their team by saying, “Keep pushing, we can still win this game.”
When someone is studying for a difficult exam, a friend might say, “Keep pushing, you’ve got this!”

12. Never give up

This phrase is a motivational statement that encourages someone to keep going and not give up, even when faced with obstacles or setbacks.

For instance, if someone is struggling with a difficult project, you might say, “Never give up, you’re almost there.”
In a personal development context, someone might share, “I faced many challenges, but I never gave up on my dreams.”
When someone is training for a marathon, a coach might say, “Never give up, you’re stronger than you think!”

13. Work your fingers to the bone

This phrase is used to emphasize the level of effort and dedication someone puts into their work.

For example, if someone is working long hours on a project, you might say, “He’s really working his fingers to the bone.”
In a discussion about work ethic, someone might comment, “I believe in working hard and giving it your all, even if it means working your fingers to the bone.”
When describing a person’s work habits, you might say, “She’s always willing to work her fingers to the bone to get the job done.”

14. Strive for perfection

This phrase encourages someone to aim for the highest standard of quality or performance in their work or endeavors.

For instance, a teacher might tell their students, “Strive for perfection in your assignments.”
In a discussion about personal growth, someone might say, “I believe in constantly striving for perfection in all areas of my life.”
When giving advice to a young athlete, a coach might say, “Strive for perfection in your training and on the field.”

15. Give it your best shot

This phrase is used to encourage someone to give something their best effort or try their hardest.

For example, if someone is nervous about a job interview, you might say, “Relax and give it your best shot.”
In a sports context, a coach might motivate their team by saying, “Go out there and give it your best shot, leave everything on the field.”
When someone is attempting a challenging task, a friend might say, “You’ve got this, give it your best shot!”

16. Work your way up

This phrase means to start at a lower level and gradually advance to a higher position or achieve success through hard work and perseverance.

For example, someone might say, “I started as an intern and worked my way up to a management position.”
In a discussion about career growth, a person might advise, “If you want to succeed, you have to be willing to work your way up.”
A mentor might encourage their mentee by saying, “Don’t worry about starting at the bottom. Just work your way up and prove your abilities.”

17. Strive for improvement

This phrase means to make continuous efforts to enhance one’s skills, knowledge, or performance in order to achieve better results.

For instance, a coach might tell their team, “Always strive for improvement and never settle for mediocrity.”
In a self-improvement discussion, someone might say, “I’m constantly striving for improvement in all aspects of my life.”
A teacher might encourage their students by saying, “Remember to strive for improvement, not perfection.”

18. Go all out

This phrase means to put in maximum effort or energy into something, without holding back or reserving any resources.

For example, before a big game, a coach might say, “I want you to go all out and leave everything on the field.”
In a discussion about achieving goals, someone might advise, “If you want to succeed, you have to be willing to go all out.”
A motivational speaker might inspire their audience by saying, “Don’t be afraid to go all out and chase your dreams.”

19. Put your heart into it

This phrase means to invest one’s emotions, passion, and dedication into something, showing genuine interest and commitment.

For instance, a musician might say, “When I perform, I always put my heart into it.”
In a conversation about pursuing a career, someone might advise, “Find something you’re passionate about and put your heart into it.”
A parent might encourage their child by saying, “Whatever you do, put your heart into it and give it your best.”

20. Strive for success

This phrase means to make continuous efforts and work hard in order to achieve success or reach a desired goal.

For example, a motivational speaker might say, “Don’t settle for mediocrity. Strive for success and greatness.”
In a discussion about personal development, someone might say, “I’m always striving for success and pushing myself to achieve more.”
A mentor might advise their mentee by saying, “Set high goals and strive for success. Don’t be afraid to aim for greatness.”

21. Leave no stone unturned

This phrase means to make sure that every possible avenue or option has been explored and investigated before coming to a conclusion or making a decision.

For example, a detective might say, “We need to leave no stone unturned in our search for the missing person.”
In a job interview, a candidate might say, “I’m determined to leave no stone unturned in my pursuit of success.”
A coach might tell their team, “We have to leave no stone unturned in our preparations for the championship game.”

22. Keep your eye on the prize

This expression means to remain focused on the ultimate goal or objective, without getting distracted or losing sight of what you are working towards.

For instance, a student might say, “I’m going to keep my eye on the prize and study hard for this exam.”
In a competitive sports event, a coach might remind their team, “Keep your eye on the prize and give it your all.”
A motivational speaker might say, “Success comes to those who keep their eye on the prize and never give up.”

23. Reach for the top

This phrase means to aim for the highest level of achievement or success in a particular endeavor or field. It encourages individuals to set ambitious goals and work hard to achieve them.

For example, a teacher might tell their students, “Reach for the top and you’ll surprise yourself with what you can accomplish.”
In a business setting, a manager might say, “Our company’s goal is to reach for the top and become a leader in our industry.”
A coach might inspire their team by saying, “We’re going to reach for the top and show everyone what we’re capable of.”

24. Keep pushing forward

This phrase means to continue moving forward and making progress, even in the face of challenges or setbacks. It emphasizes the importance of resilience and determination.

For instance, someone going through a difficult time might say, “I just have to keep pushing forward and things will get better.”
In a marathon race, a runner might motivate themselves by repeating, “Keep pushing forward, you’re almost there!”
A project manager might encourage their team by saying, “No matter what obstacles we face, we’re going to keep pushing forward and complete this project successfully.”

25. Go above and beyond

This phrase means to do more than what is required or expected. It suggests going the extra mile and putting in additional effort to achieve exceptional results.

For example, an employee might say, “I always strive to go above and beyond in my work to ensure customer satisfaction.”
In a volunteer organization, a member might say, “We’re encouraged to go above and beyond to make a positive impact in the community.”
A teacher might tell their students, “If you want to succeed, you have to go above and beyond what is asked of you.”

26. Give it your everything

This phrase means to give your absolute best effort or to put in 100% of your energy and dedication into something.

For example, a coach might say to their team, “In this game, I want you to give it your everything and leave it all on the field.”
A motivational speaker might say, “If you want to achieve your goals, you have to be willing to give it your everything.”
A student preparing for a test might tell themselves, “I’m going to give it my everything and study as hard as I can.”

27. Leave it all on the line

This phrase means to give everything you have and not hold back, especially in a high-stakes situation or competition.

For instance, a performer might say before going on stage, “I’m going to leave it all on the line and give the best performance of my life.”
A basketball player might say, “In the final minutes of the game, we need to leave it all on the line and give it our all.”
A job applicant might tell themselves before an interview, “I’m going to leave it all on the line and show them why I’m the best candidate.”

28. Go hard

This phrase means to put in a lot of effort or to give it your all.

For example, a fitness instructor might say, “During this workout, I want you to go hard and push yourself to the limit.”
A coach might tell their team, “In the second half, I want you to go hard and show the other team what you’re made of.”
A student preparing for an exam might say, “I’m going to go hard and study for hours to ensure I get a good grade.”

29. Leave it all on the court

This phrase is often used in sports and means to give your maximum effort during a game or competition.

For instance, a basketball coach might say to their players, “Go out there and leave it all on the court. Give it everything you’ve got.”
A tennis player might say, “In the final set, I’m going to leave it all on the court and fight for every point.”
A soccer player might tell their teammates, “This is our last game of the season. Let’s leave it all on the court and end on a high note.”

30. Give 110%

This phrase is used to emphasize giving more effort or energy than is typically required or expected.

For example, a coach might say to their team, “I want each of you to give 110% out there and show me what you’re capable of.”
A boss might tell their employees, “If you want to succeed in this company, you need to give 110% every day.”
A musician might say, “I always give 110% during my performances because I want to give the audience an unforgettable experience.”

31. Work towards

This phrase means to put effort and focus into achieving a specific goal or outcome. It implies actively working and making progress towards something.

For example, a motivational speaker might say, “Always work towards your goals, no matter how big or small.”
In a conversation about personal growth, someone might advise, “Work towards becoming the best version of yourself.”
A coach might encourage their team by saying, “Let’s work towards victory and give it our all.”

32. Chase your dreams

This phrase is an encouragement to actively pursue and go after one’s dreams and goals. It emphasizes the importance of not giving up and taking action.

For instance, someone might say, “Don’t be afraid to chase your dreams, even if they seem impossible.”
In a discussion about career choices, a mentor might advise, “Find a path that allows you to chase your dreams and find fulfillment.”
A motivational quote might say, “Chase your dreams with passion and determination, and they will become your reality.”

33. Never settle

This phrase means to refuse to accept anything less than what you truly desire or deserve. It encourages continuous improvement and not being content with mediocrity.

For example, someone might say, “Never settle for a job that doesn’t make you happy.”
In a conversation about relationships, a friend might advise, “Don’t settle for someone who doesn’t treat you with respect and love.”
A self-help book might state, “Never settle for less than you deserve in any aspect of your life.”

34. Stay hungry

This phrase is a reminder to maintain a strong desire and drive for success. It encourages individuals to stay motivated, ambitious, and eager to achieve their goals.

For instance, a business leader might say, “Stay hungry for success and never lose your hunger for growth.”
In a discussion about personal development, someone might advise, “Stay hungry for knowledge and continuously seek opportunities to learn.”
A motivational quote might read, “Stay hungry, stay foolish, and keep reaching for the stars.”

35. Work your butt off

This phrase means to work extremely hard and put in a significant amount of effort. It emphasizes the importance of dedication, perseverance, and going above and beyond.

For example, a coach might tell their team, “If you want to win, you need to work your butt off in practice.”
In a conversation about career success, someone might say, “To climb the ladder, you have to be willing to work your butt off.”
A motivational speaker might encourage their audience by saying, “Work your butt off, and success will follow.”

36. Be relentless

To be relentless means to never give up or stop trying, even in the face of challenges or obstacles.

For example, a coach might say to their team, “Be relentless on defense and never let up.”
A motivational speaker might encourage their audience by saying, “If you want to achieve your goals, you have to be relentless in your pursuit.”
A person discussing their career might say, “I faced many setbacks, but I was relentless in my efforts to succeed.”

37. Fight for it

To fight for it means to strongly advocate for or pursue something you desire or believe in.

For instance, a student might say, “I’m going to fight for my right to a quality education.”
In a discussion about equal rights, someone might say, “We must fight for equality for all.”
A person discussing their career might say, “I had to fight for the promotion I deserved.”

38. Keep on keeping on

To keep on keeping on means to persist or continue with determination, despite challenges or setbacks.

For example, a friend might encourage another friend by saying, “Don’t give up, just keep on keeping on.”
In a discussion about personal growth, someone might say, “Life can be tough, but we have to keep on keeping on.”
A person discussing their fitness journey might say, “Even on days when I don’t feel like it, I remind myself to keep on keeping on.”

39. Strive for excellence

To strive for excellence means to pursue the highest level of quality or achievement in a particular area.

For instance, a teacher might say to their students, “Always strive for excellence in your work.”
In a discussion about personal development, someone might say, “I strive for excellence in everything I do.”
A person discussing their athletic goals might say, “I train hard and strive for excellence on the field.”

40. Put in the work

To put in the work means to invest time, effort, and energy into something in order to achieve a desired outcome.

For example, a coach might tell their team, “If you want to win, you have to put in the work during practice.”
In a discussion about success, someone might say, “You can’t expect results if you don’t put in the work.”
A person discussing their artistic pursuits might say, “I spend hours practicing and honing my craft because I believe in putting in the work.”