strive
verb (used without object)
to exert oneself vigorously; try hard.
had striven
-
past perfectof strive.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The White House had striven to ensure that its first real legislative push would be an organized, disciplined one.
From Washington Post ● Mar. 24, 2017
“The dreams and ambitions I had striven for, for a decade, had been shattered,” Neal later wrote.
From The Guardian ● Dec. 31, 2016
Dawson said it had "striven for many years" to reduce the deficit on its pension plans, making contributions of £2.2m in the last financial year alone.
From BBC ● Jul. 20, 2012
Soon enough, Mr. Howell said, he heard similar stories from other members, all of them employed, most of them first-time homeowners who had striven to move out of Oakland.
From New York Times ● Mar. 9, 2012
And with what had might he had striven for tenure!
From "Typical American" by Gish Jen
