Ambitious

Ambitious is an adjective describing a strong desire and determination to achieve significant goals, often requiring effort, risk, or competition. It can apply to people, projects, organizations, or plans. The term can carry positive connotations (ambitious goals, an ambitious career) or negative ones when implying excess or impractical aims. The word derives from Latin ambitiosus, meaning desirous of honor or campaign-like, via Old French ambitieux, with use in English dating to the late Middle Ages.

In psychology and sociology, ambition is viewed as a form of achievement motivation. It can be intrinsic, driven by personal standards and satisfaction, or extrinsic, influenced by external rewards or status. Ambition helps shape career choices, education, and risk-taking, but excessive ambition without adequate resources or support can contribute to stress or burnout.

Ambitious language often describes plans or people in a neutral or favorable light when tied to constructive goals, such as reducing poverty or advancing science. It can also imply that targets are demanding or potentially risky when used in a critical sense, as in an overly ambitious timetable or project.

Related terms include ambition, aspirational, drive, and motivation.