set one’s heart on, to
set one’s heart on, to - To have an earnest desire for; to determine to obtain something. The heart has long been equated with one’s innermost being, and to “set” it on something means to fix it in that direction. This term dates from the fourteenth century. It appears in the Bible: “If riches increase, set not your heart upon them” (Psalms 62:10). This passage is repeated in the Book of Common Prayer.
Related Terms:
- “Aspire to”: Same idea, less cardio.
- “Dream of”: Floating intently towards the future.
- “Yearn for”: Adding a flavor of deep emotional hunger.
Similar Expressions:
- “Have one’s heart set on”: This is cousin language with a matching heartbeat.
- “Pin one’s hopes on”: Because what’s hope without a good thumbtack?
Synonyms:
- Long for
- Desire passionately
- Covet (though not in a sinister, Gollum-like manner)
Antonyms:
- Dismiss
- Ignore
- Overlook
They Said It Best:
“The surest way not to fail is to determine to succeed.” - Richard Brinsley Sheridan
“Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson
Ah, the ardent pursuit of dreams—the stuff of great novels, epic poems, and stirring speeches. Here are some literary and cinematic accompaniments to stoke the fires of your ambition:
Literature and Books to Inspire:
- Great Expectations by Charles Dickens 📚
- The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho 🧭
- Little Women by Louisa May Alcott 👭
Songs to Stir the Soul:
- “I Have a Dream” by ABBA 🎶
- “Dream On” by Aerosmith 🎤
- “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey 🚂
Poetry to Ponder:
- If— by Rudyard Kipling ✍️
- Sonnet 116 by William Shakespeare 🖋️
Cinematic Inspirations:
- The Pursuit of Happyness 🎬
- Ratatouille (Yes, dreams can also come true for rodents!) 🐭
Quiz Time! 👇
Stay inspired and keep setting your heart on lofty aspirations! 🌟
Farewell until our next whimsical exploration of phrases and expressions. Keep your heart set on joy, curiosity, and discovery.
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell:
“Your heart is precious and powerful. Set it wisely, for what it aspires to, it often achieves.” - Sir Verity Wordsworth
