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How to Say "ambition" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “ambition” is “ambición” — use this word for a strong, often intense, desire for success, power, or wealth, especially in a career or public life.

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ambición

nounB1general
Use this word for a strong, often intense, desire for success, power, or wealth, especially in a career or public life.

Examples

Su ambición es convertirse en el director de la empresa.

His ambition is to become the company director.

afán

nounB1general
This word describes a strong eagerness or desire to achieve something, often related to learning, personal growth, or a specific pursuit.

Examples

Tiene un gran afán por aprender cosas nuevas.

She has a great eagerness to learn new things.

aspiración

nounB1general
Use this term for personal goals, dreams, or specific targets you aim to achieve, particularly in life or career planning.

Examples

Mi mayor aspiración es viajar por todo el mundo.

My greatest aspiration is to travel the whole world.

pretensión

nounB1general
This refers to a desire or aim, often more modest or focused on a specific, sometimes simple, outcome or state of being.

Examples

Mi única pretensión es ser feliz y vivir tranquilo.

My only ambition is to be happy and live a quiet life.

hambre

ahm-brehˈambɾe

nounB2figurative
This is a more figurative and intense translation, meaning a 'hunger' or voracious drive for power, success, or achievement.
A determined young student enthusiastically reaching out toward a massive, illuminated, open book floating above them, symbolizing an intense thirst or craving for knowledge.

Examples

Tiene hambre de poder y no se detendrá ante nada.

He has a hunger for power and will stop at nothing.

Después de años sin viajar, tenía un hambre de aventura.

After years without traveling, she had a craving for adventure.

Su hambre de conocimiento era insaciable.

His thirst for knowledge was insatiable.

Ambición vs. Afán vs. Aspiración

Learners often confuse 'ambición' with 'afán' and 'aspiración'. While 'ambición' implies a strong drive for success, 'afán' is more about eagerness to do or learn something, and 'aspiración' refers to specific life goals or targets.

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