I have strived vs "I have striven"?

Question

In a college application essay, I am trying to write the sentence along the lines of: > I have always **strived** to achieve my goals. Should I say *strived* or *striven*? According to [this article at grammarist.com](http://grammarist.com/usage/strove-strived-striven/), *striven* is correct but *strived* is gaining popularity. Which is better in a formal essay?

Answer 1

For a formal essay, use the authentic word striven. I have striven...

Answer 2

Hello!

Verbs that are paired with "have," "has," or "had" must be in the participle form.

1. I have gone to the beach.
2. She has seen the movie.
3. They had already done their homework when they received the class cancellation notice.

In your case, you need the participle form of "strive," which is "striven." Sometimes, incorrect grammar becomes acceptable because of increased use (e.g. "biweekly" now means both twice a week and once every two weeks); however, you should always use the most correct form of a word in any formal or academic writing.