Top 50 Slang For Strives – Meaning & Usage

When it comes to expressing the drive and determination to achieve one’s goals, language can play a powerful role. In this listicle, we’ve curated the top slang terms that capture the essence of striving for success. Whether you’re a go-getter or simply looking to spice up your vocabulary, we’ve got you covered with the latest and most exciting slang for those who are constantly pushing themselves to new heights. Get ready to level up your lexicon and embrace the language of ambition!

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1. Hustles

Hustles refers to the act of working hard and putting in extra effort to achieve goals or success.

For example, someone might say, “He hustles every day to make his business successful.”
In a discussion about career success, one might say, “You have to hustle and put in the work to climb the corporate ladder.”
A motivational speaker might encourage their audience by saying, “Don’t wait for success to come to you, go out there and hustle for it!”

2. Grinds

Grinds refers to the act of consistently putting in effort and working hard towards a goal or objective.

For instance, someone might say, “She grinds every day to improve her skills as a musician.”
In a conversation about academic success, one might say, “You have to grind and study consistently to get good grades.”
A coach might motivate their team by saying, “Keep grinding and pushing yourselves to reach your full potential!”

3. Pushes

Pushes refers to the act of striving and pushing oneself to achieve something or overcome challenges.

For example, someone might say, “He pushes himself to the limit in every workout.”
In a discussion about personal growth, one might say, “You have to push yourself outside of your comfort zone to achieve success.”
A mentor might advise their mentee by saying, “When faced with obstacles, don’t give up, keep pushing and working towards your goals!”

4. Works towards

Works towards refers to the act of putting effort, focus, and dedication towards achieving a specific goal or objective.

For instance, someone might say, “She works towards becoming a better version of herself every day.”
In a conversation about career advancement, one might say, “You have to work towards acquiring new skills to move up the corporate ladder.”
A teacher might encourage their students by saying, “Keep working towards your dreams and never stop learning!”

5. Struggles

Struggles refers to the act of facing challenges and working hard to overcome them in order to achieve success or reach a goal.

For example, someone might say, “He struggles with his finances, but he’s working hard to improve his situation.”
In a discussion about personal development, one might say, “We all face struggles in life, but it’s how we overcome them that defines us.”
A motivational speaker might say, “Embrace your struggles and use them as fuel to propel you towards success!”

6. Labors

This term refers to putting in a lot of effort and working diligently towards a goal or task. It often implies a sense of perseverance and dedication.

For example, someone might say, “She labored for hours to complete the project.”
In a conversation about achieving success, one might say, “Success doesn’t come without hard labors.”
A coach might motivate their team by saying, “Let’s put in the labors and come out victorious!”

7. Endeavors

This word is used to describe making an earnest and determined effort to achieve something. It conveys the idea of striving towards a goal or pursuing a particular outcome.

For instance, someone might say, “He endeavors to be the best in his field.”
In a discussion about personal growth, one might say, “I’m constantly making endeavors to improve myself.”
A motivational speaker might encourage their audience by saying, “Never give up on your endeavors, no matter how difficult they may seem.”

8. Drives

To “drive” means to be strongly motivated or compelled to achieve something. It implies a strong desire or ambition to succeed.

For example, someone might say, “His drive to succeed is unmatched.”
In a conversation about career goals, one might say, “What drives you to pursue this profession?”
A mentor might advise their mentee by saying, “Find your inner drive and let it push you towards your goals.”

9. Pursues

This term refers to actively seeking or going after something, often with determination and persistence. It implies a sense of actively working towards a goal or aspiration.

For instance, someone might say, “She pursues her dreams relentlessly.”
In a discussion about personal development, one might say, “I’m constantly pursuing new opportunities for growth.”
A career counselor might advise their client by saying, “Pursue a career that aligns with your passions and interests.”

10. Aspires

To aspire means to have a strong desire or ambition to achieve something. It conveys the idea of aiming high and setting lofty goals for oneself.

For example, someone might say, “She aspires to be a successful entrepreneur.”
In a conversation about dreams and aspirations, one might say, “What do you aspire to achieve in your lifetime?”
A motivational speaker might inspire their audience by saying, “Never stop aspiring to be the best version of yourself.”

11. Works hard

This phrase is used to describe someone who is dedicated and puts in a lot of effort to achieve their goals.

For example, “She works hard to excel in her studies.”
A boss might compliment an employee by saying, “He always works hard and goes the extra mile.”
In a motivational speech, a speaker might say, “If you want to succeed, you have to work hard and never give up.”

12. Grapples

To grapple is to struggle or wrestle with something, often in a metaphorical sense. It implies a difficult or challenging situation.

For instance, “He grapples with his inner demons.”
A person might say, “I’m grappling with a difficult decision.”
In a conversation about personal growth, someone might admit, “I’m still grappling with self-doubt.”

13. Exerts

To exert means to put forth physical or mental effort in order to achieve something.

For example, “She exerts herself to meet deadlines.”
A coach might say, “You need to exert more effort in your training.”
In a discussion about achieving success, someone might advise, “You have to exert yourself and take risks to reach your goals.”

14. Digs in

To dig in means to commit fully to a task or endeavor, often in the face of challenges or difficulties.

For instance, “She digs in and keeps working despite setbacks.”
A person might say, “I’m digging in and giving it my all.”
In a motivational speech, a speaker might encourage the audience to “dig in and never give up.”

15. Slogs

To slog means to continue working hard and making progress, even when the task is difficult or tedious.

For example, “He slogs through his homework assignments.”
A person might say, “I’m slogging through this project, but I know it will be worth it.”
In a discussion about perseverance, someone might say, “Sometimes you just have to slog through the tough times to reach success.”

16. Strains

When someone strains, they are putting in a lot of effort or working hard to achieve something. It can refer to physical or mental exertion.

For example, “She strains to lift the heavy weight.”
In a discussion about studying, someone might say, “I’ve been straining all night to understand this concept.”
A person talking about their job might say, “I strain every day to meet the demands of my clients.”

17. Toils

To toil means to work hard and continuously, often with little reward or rest. It implies laborious or strenuous effort.

For instance, “He toils in the fields from dawn till dusk.”
In a conversation about a difficult project, someone might say, “We’ve been toiling away for weeks to meet the deadline.”
A person discussing their career might say, “I toil day and night to provide for my family.”

18. Sweats

When someone sweats, they are putting in a lot of physical effort or working hard. It can imply exertion, perseverance, or intense focus.

For example, “She sweats it out at the gym every day.”
In a discussion about a challenging task, someone might say, “I’m sweating over this presentation.”
A person talking about their dedication to a hobby might say, “I sweat to improve my skills in photography.”

19. Plugs away

To plug away means to persistently work at something, often in a determined and focused manner. It implies steady effort and dedication.

For instance, “He plugs away at his novel, writing every day.”
In a conversation about a long-term goal, someone might say, “I’ve been plugging away at this project for months.”
A person discussing their career might say, “I’ve been plugging away at my job, hoping for a promotion.”

20. Tries hard

When someone tries hard, they are putting in a significant amount of effort or working diligently to accomplish something. It implies a strong desire to succeed.

For example, “She tries hard to excel in her studies.”
In a discussion about a challenging task, someone might say, “I’m trying hard to solve this problem.”
A person talking about their personal growth might say, “I try hard to become a better version of myself every day.”

21. Shoot for the stars

This phrase means to set ambitious goals or aspirations, often with the intention of achieving great success. It encourages individuals to strive for the highest level of achievement possible.

For example, a motivational speaker might say, “Don’t be afraid to shoot for the stars and reach for your dreams.”
A coach might inspire their team by saying, “Let’s go out there and shoot for the stars in this game.”
A teacher might encourage their students by saying, “Believe in yourself and shoot for the stars in your academic pursuits.”

22. Leave it all on the field

This phrase means to put forth maximum effort or energy, leaving nothing behind. It is often used in sports to encourage athletes to give their best performance and not hold anything back.

For instance, a coach might say, “I want you to leave it all on the field and give 100% in this game.”
A player might motivate their teammates by saying, “Let’s leave it all on the field and show them what we’re capable of.”
A fan might cheer on their favorite team by shouting, “Leave it all on the field! Give it everything you’ve got!”

23. Leave no stone unturned

This phrase means to investigate or explore every possible avenue or option in order to find a solution or achieve a desired outcome. It emphasizes thoroughness and the willingness to go to great lengths in the pursuit of a goal.

For example, a detective might say, “We will leave no stone unturned in our search for the truth.”
A researcher might express their dedication by saying, “I will leave no stone unturned in my quest for knowledge.”
A job seeker might demonstrate their determination by saying, “I will leave no stone unturned in my job search and explore every opportunity.”

24. Strive for greatness

This phrase means to make a continuous effort to achieve greatness or excellence in one’s endeavors. It encourages individuals to set high standards for themselves and to constantly work towards improving and surpassing their previous achievements.

For instance, a mentor might advise their mentee by saying, “Always strive for greatness and never settle for mediocrity.”
An athlete might motivate themselves by saying, “I will strive for greatness and become the best in my sport.”
A business leader might inspire their team by saying, “Let’s strive for greatness and exceed our customers’ expectations.”

25. Work your fingers to the bone

This phrase means to work tirelessly and exert maximum effort in a task or job. It implies working to the point of exhaustion or physical strain.

For example, a boss might commend their hardworking employee by saying, “You really work your fingers to the bone. I appreciate your dedication.”
A student might describe their study habits by saying, “I work my fingers to the bone to achieve good grades.”
A parent might express their commitment to providing for their family by saying, “I work my fingers to the bone to ensure my children have a comfortable life.”

26. Reach for the sky

This phrase encourages someone to set high aspirations or aim for great achievements. It implies reaching for the highest possible outcome.

For example, a motivational speaker might say, “Don’t limit yourself. Reach for the sky and see what you can achieve.”
A coach might inspire their team by saying, “Let’s give it our all and reach for the sky in this game.”
In a conversation about career goals, someone might say, “I want to reach for the sky and become a CEO one day.”

27. Aim high

This phrase advises someone to set their goals and expectations at a high level. It suggests aiming for the best possible outcome.

For instance, a teacher might encourage their students by saying, “Believe in yourself and aim high in your studies.”
A mentor might advise their mentee, “Don’t be afraid to aim high in your career aspirations. You have the potential to achieve great things.”
In a discussion about personal growth, someone might share, “I always strive to aim high and push my limits.”

28. Dig deep

This phrase means to look within oneself for the inner strength and determination needed to overcome challenges or achieve a goal.

For example, a coach might motivate their team by saying, “When things get tough, dig deep and find that extra push.”
In a conversation about resilience, someone might say, “In difficult times, it’s important to dig deep and tap into our inner strength.”
A friend might encourage another by saying, “I know you can do it. Dig deep and find the courage to keep going.”

29. Reach for the stars

This phrase suggests aiming for the highest possible goals or dreams, without limiting oneself. It implies striving for greatness.

For instance, a parent might encourage their child by saying, “Dream big and reach for the stars. You can achieve anything you set your mind to.”
In a conversation about career aspirations, someone might share, “I’ve always wanted to reach for the stars and become a successful entrepreneur.”
A motivational speaker might inspire their audience by saying, “Don’t settle for mediocrity. Reach for the stars and create the life you desire.”

30. Shoot for the moon

This phrase means to set high goals or aspirations, even if they seem difficult or out of reach. It encourages aiming for the best possible outcome.

For example, a teacher might motivate their students by saying, “Believe in yourselves and shoot for the moon in your academic pursuits.”
In a conversation about personal development, someone might say, “I always strive to shoot for the moon and push my boundaries.”
A mentor might advise their mentee, “Don’t be afraid to shoot for the moon in your career. You never know what you can achieve unless you try.”

31. Work towards

This phrase is used to describe the act of putting in effort and taking steps to achieve a specific goal or outcome.

For example, “I’m working towards getting a promotion at work.”
A student might say, “I’m working towards improving my grades this semester.”
Someone might share, “I’m working towards saving enough money to buy a new car.”

32. Struggle for

This phrase is used to describe the act of fighting or striving to obtain something, often in the face of challenges or obstacles.

For instance, “I’m struggling for success in my career.”
A person might say, “I’m struggling for equality and social justice.”
Someone might share, “I’m struggling for a better work-life balance.”

33. Work for

This phrase is used to describe the act of putting effort and time into achieving something.

For example, “I’m working for a promotion at my job.”
A student might say, “I’m working for good grades in all my classes.”
Someone might share, “I’m working for a healthier lifestyle by exercising regularly.”

34. Strain for

This phrase is used to describe the act of making a great effort or exerting oneself to obtain something.

For instance, “I’m straining for success in my business.”
A person might say, “I’m straining for financial stability.”
Someone might share, “I’m straining for personal growth and self-improvement.”

35. Drive for

This phrase is used to describe a strong desire or motivation to achieve something.

For example, “I have a drive for success in my career.”
A person might say, “I have a drive for making a positive impact on the world.”
Someone might share, “I have a drive for continuous learning and personal development.”

36. Fight for

This phrase means to put in a strong effort or work hard to achieve something. It implies a sense of determination and perseverance.

For example, “I will fight for my dreams and never give up.”
In a motivational speech, someone might say, “Fight for what you believe in and never back down.”
A coach might encourage their team by saying, “Go out there and fight for the win!”

37. Work hard for

This phrase means to put in a significant amount of effort or work diligently towards a goal. It emphasizes the idea of exerting oneself and not taking shortcuts.

For instance, “I have to work hard for this promotion.”
In a conversation about success, someone might say, “You have to work hard for what you want.”
A teacher might advise their students, “If you want to excel, you need to work hard for it.”

38. Go all out

This phrase means to put forth maximum effort or give one’s best performance in a particular situation. It implies going beyond what is expected or required.

For example, “I’m going to go all out on this project and give it everything I’ve got.”
In a sports context, a coach might say, “Go all out on the field and leave nothing behind.”
A performer might declare, “I’m going to go all out tonight and give the audience an unforgettable show.”

39. Put in the effort

This phrase means to dedicate time, energy, and resources towards achieving a goal. It emphasizes the importance of actively working towards success.

For instance, “If you want to see results, you have to put in the effort.”
In a discussion about personal growth, someone might say, “You have to put in the effort to improve yourself.”
A mentor might advise their mentee, “Success doesn’t come easy, you have to put in the effort.”

40. Give your best shot

This phrase means to give one’s maximum effort or perform to the best of one’s abilities. It suggests making the most of an opportunity and not holding back.

For example, “I’m going to give my best shot at the audition.”
In a competition, someone might say, “Give your best shot and leave it all on the field.”
A teacher might encourage their students, “Believe in yourself and give your best shot on the exam.”

41. Put your nose to the grindstone

This phrase means to work diligently and persistently, often with a focus on a specific task or goal. It implies putting in a lot of effort and not being easily distracted.

For example, a manager might say to their team, “We have a tight deadline, so everyone needs to put their nose to the grindstone.”
A student might use this phrase when talking about studying for a difficult exam, saying, “I need to put my nose to the grindstone if I want to pass.”
In a conversation about achieving success, someone might say, “If you want to reach your goals, you have to put your nose to the grindstone and work hard.”

42. Strive for excellence

This phrase encourages individuals to work towards achieving the highest level of quality or excellence in their endeavors. It implies setting high standards for oneself and continuously pushing to improve.

For instance, a coach might tell their team, “We need to strive for excellence in every game we play.”
In a job interview, a candidate might say, “I always strive for excellence in everything I do.”
A teacher might use this phrase when encouraging their students, saying, “Remember to strive for excellence in your work and always do your best.”

43. Work your tail off

This phrase means to work very hard and put in a lot of effort. It emphasizes the idea of exerting oneself to the maximum extent and not shying away from hard work.

For example, a supervisor might say to their employee, “You need to work your tail off if you want to get that promotion.”
Someone might use this phrase when talking about their dedication to their job, saying, “I’ve been working my tail off to meet the deadline.”
In a conversation about achieving success, a motivational speaker might say, “If you want to achieve your goals, you have to be willing to work your tail off.”

44. Go the extra mile

This phrase means to put in extra effort or go beyond what is required or expected. It implies going above and beyond to achieve a higher level of excellence or to provide exceptional service.

For instance, a customer service representative might say, “I always go the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction.”
A student might use this phrase when talking about their approach to studying, saying, “I go the extra mile by seeking out additional resources and practice materials.”
In a discussion about achieving success, someone might say, “If you want to stand out, you have to be willing to go the extra mile.”

45. Work like a dog

This phrase means to work extremely hard and continuously, often without taking breaks or resting. It compares the intensity and dedication of work to that of a dog, known for its tireless energy and work ethic.

For example, a coworker might say to another, “You always work like a dog. I admire your dedication.”
Someone might use this phrase when talking about their work habits, saying, “I’ve been working like a dog to meet the project deadline.”
In a conversation about work-life balance, someone might say, “I used to work like a dog, but now I prioritize self-care and taking breaks.”

46. Strive for perfection

This phrase encourages individuals to pursue perfection in their endeavors, whether it be in their work, personal life, or any other aspect. It implies a strong determination and dedication to achieving the highest level of quality or success.

For example, a coach might tell their team, “We need to strive for perfection in every game.”
In a job interview, a candidate might say, “I always strive for perfection in my work.”
A motivational speaker might inspire their audience by saying, “Don’t settle for mediocrity; strive for perfection in everything you do.”

47. Work your socks off

This phrase is used to describe someone who is working extremely hard and putting in a lot of effort to achieve their goals. It emphasizes the level of dedication and determination required to succeed.

For instance, a teacher might tell their students, “You need to work your socks off if you want to pass this exam.”
In a conversation about career success, someone might say, “I’ve been working my socks off to get that promotion.”
A parent might encourage their child by saying, “If you want to achieve your dreams, you have to work your socks off.”

48. Strive for success

This phrase encourages individuals to actively pursue success in their endeavors. It implies a strong desire and determination to achieve one’s goals and reach a high level of accomplishment.

For example, a mentor might advise their mentee, “Always strive for success in everything you do.”
In a motivational speech, a speaker might say, “Don’t be afraid to take risks and strive for success.”
A business leader might inspire their team by saying, “We need to strive for success and become industry leaders.”

49. Work your butt off

This phrase is similar to “work your socks off” and is used to describe someone who is working extremely hard and putting in a lot of effort to achieve their goals. It emphasizes the level of dedication and determination required to succeed.

For instance, a coach might tell their team, “You need to work your butt off if you want to win this championship.”
In a conversation about academic achievement, someone might say, “I’ve been working my butt off to get straight A’s.”
A friend might encourage another by saying, “I know you can do it! Just work your butt off and you’ll achieve your goals.”

50. Strive for the best

This phrase encourages individuals to aim for the highest level of quality or achievement in their endeavors. It implies a strong desire and determination to reach the best possible outcome.

For example, a teacher might tell their students, “Always strive for the best in your assignments.”
In a conversation about personal growth, someone might say, “I’m constantly striving for the best version of myself.”
A coach might motivate their team by saying, “Let’s strive for the best and give it our all in this game.”