C1verb2K

Thrive

UK /["/θraɪv/","/θraɪvz/","/θraɪvd/","/ˈθraɪvɪŋ/"]/US /["/θraɪv/","/θraɪvz/","/θraɪvd/","/ˈθraɪvɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to become, and continue to be, successful, strong, healthy, etc.

In simple words: To grow strong and be successful.

Examples

  • New businesses thrive in this area.
  • These animals rarely thrive in captivity.
  • The glass industry still thrives there.
  • These traditions continued to thrive.
  • They are concerned about their baby daughter's failure to thrive.
  • Babies like this thrive best in a quiet, restful atmosphere.
  • He's clearly thriving in his new job.
  • The fungus thrives in warm, moist conditions.

Usage notes

This word is suitable in both casual and professional contexts. Use it to describe personal growth or the success of businesses and plants. Avoid using it in overly negative contexts.

Grammar pattern

thrive + on/in/through + object

Memory hint

Think of 'thrive' as 'five stars' for success—imagine a business getting five stars in a review.

Collocations

  • positively
  • still
  • seem to
  • continue to
  • fail to
  • on
  • failure to thrive

Synonyms

  • flourish

Antonyms

  • fail
  • decline
  • wither

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'survive' - thrive means to do well, while survive means to just get by.
  • Using it in a negative sentence - thrive is generally positive, so it's rare to say 'does not thrive.'
  • Confusing the prepositions - remember to use 'on', 'in', or 'through' correctly.