Antonyms for “strive” offer contrasting actions or attitudes that are the opposite of making an effort or aiming for a goal. Here are some analyzed:
- “Languish”: This word implies a state of inactivity or lack of energy. When one languishes, they are not striving at all but rather are passive and listless. For example, “The plant languished without proper care.” It shows a lack of initiative and drive.
- “Abandon”: To abandon something means to give up on it completely. While striving is about persevering and working towards a goal, abandoning is the opposite action. “He abandoned his dreams of becoming a musician.” It indicates a decision to stop trying and walk away.
- “Neglect”: This suggests a failure to take care of or pay attention to something. Neglecting a task or goal is contrary to striving for it. “She neglected her studies and fell behind.” It shows a lack of effort and concern.
- “Despair”: When one despairs, they lose hope and give up any attempt to strive. “In the face of difficulties, he despaired and stopped trying.” It represents a state of hopelessness that is the antithesis of the determination and effort associated with striving.
In conclusion, these antonyms for “strive” provide different ways to describe actions or states that are the opposite of making an effort. Depending on the context, using these words can help convey a sense of lack of motivation or giving up, in contrast to the active pursuit of a goal that “strive” implies.