French word

ambition

Pronunciation

IPA/ɑ̃bisjɔ̃/

Meaning

  • feminine nounambition

Example

Elle a beaucoup d'ambition.

She has a lot of ambition.

Illustration for ambition (ambition)

More examples

Il manque d'ambition.

He lacks ambition.

Core concept

A determined upward aim connecting sustained effort with success or status.

Common phrases

  • manquer d'ambition

    lack ambition

  • réaliser son ambition

    achieve one's ambition

Similar words

motivation: An inner drive that prompts action.
objectif: A specific goal set for achievement.
rêve: A grand wish or dream, whether or not it becomes reality.
volonté: The strong will to persevere despite difficulties.

Definition in French

Désir ferme de réussir, d'atteindre une position ou de réaliser un objectif important.

Word origin

The French noun ambition continues the Latin word ambitio, formed from ambire, 'to go around', which described campaigning for votes or favor.

Usage tips

  • Ambition can sound positive in French, but excessive ambition is expressed with modifiers such as une ambition démesurée.

Other meanings

  • aspirationnoun
  • drivenoun

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word