to-reach-for-the-moon
/tuː riːtʃ fɔː ðə muːn/ IELTSAcademic
idiom
To aim for something very ambitious or difficult. It often suggests high hopes, bold plans, or goals that may be hard to achieve.
- She reached for the moon with her startup idea.
- They are reaching for the moon this year.
- He always reaches for the moon in his career plans.
Adinary Nuance
Use to-reach-for-the-moon when you want to stress big ambition or a very daring goal. It is stronger and more dramatic than aim high or set goals. It can sound inspiring, but sometimes it also hints that the goal may be unrealistic.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- với tới mặt trăng
- Spanish
- apuntar a la luna
- Chinese
- 志在月球
- Japanese
- 月を目指す
- Korean
- 달을 향해 나아가다
Etymology
This phrase comes from the image of trying to touch the moon, which is far out of reach. It has been used in English for a long time to mean very high ambition.
Common phrases
reach for the moonreach for the moon and starsa moon-reaching dream
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is to-reach-for-the-moon formal or informal?
- It is fairly informal and vivid. It fits speeches, stories, and everyday conversation.
- Is it positive or negative?
- Usually positive. It can also suggest a dream is too ambitious.
- What is the difference between to-reach-for-the-moon and aim high?
- Aim high is simpler and more neutral. To-reach-for-the-moon sounds more dramatic and ambitious.
- Can I use it in business writing?
- Yes, but usually in a creative or motivational style, not in technical writing.