thrive

Everyday

1. To grow strong and healthy. tree →
2. To do very well, be successful and happy. tree →
3. (in «thrive on») To enjoy and do well because of something that others might find hard: «she thrives on challenges». tree →

In the lessons

In science, plants thrive with light, water and good soil; animals thrive in the right habitat. In everyday life a child thrives at a new school; businesses thrive. Phrases: «thrive in», «thrive on», «a thriving town», «thrive under pressure».

Examples

• Tomatoes thrive in warm, sunny places. tree →
• Penguins thrive in cold water. tree →
• Our class garden is thriving. tree →
• My sister thrives on hard work. tree →
• The little puppy thrived on good food and love. tree →
• The town thrived after the new railway came. tree →
• Children thrive when they feel safe. tree →
• The cattle are thriving; the fields are thick with corn, and soon they will be ripe for harvest.” tree →

Note

Past: «thrived» is usual now; «throve» is old or literary. Adjective: «thriving» (busy and successful). Opposite: «struggle», «wither», «decline». «Thrive» is stronger than «survive»: surviving is just staying alive, thriving is doing really well.