Dictionary
Selbstbestrebung
German → American English
American English
Self-endeavor
das eigene Streben oder Bemühen, etwas aus eigener Kraft zu erreichen
Seine Selbstbestrebung führte schließlich zum Erfolg.This is a rather formal and uncommon noun. In everyday German, people more often say "Eigeninitiative", "Bemühen" or "Streben" depending on the context.
Related words
Explore nearby vocabulary picked for learners studying this word.
Frequently asked questions
What does "Selbstbestrebung" mean in English?
It means "self-endeavor" or "self-directed striving," though it is uncommon in modern English.
Is "Selbstbestrebung" a common German word?
No, it is quite rare and sounds formal or old-fashioned. More natural alternatives are "Eigeninitiative" or "Streben".
How do you use "Selbstbestrebung" in a sentence?
You would use it to describe someone’s own efforts or striving toward a goal, usually in a formal context.