Drive Meaning

UK /draɪv/
US /draɪv/
Word Definition
drive meaning

Drive Definition & Usage

verb

To operate or control the movement of a vehicle, typically a car.

Examples

  • "She learned how to drive when she was 18."
  • "He was driving down the highway when the storm started."
  • "We drove from New York to Boston in under five hours."
  • "Can you drive me to the airport tomorrow?"
  • "I don’t know how to drive a stick shift car."
verb

To cause or motivate someone or something to take action or move in a particular direction.

Examples

  • "Her ambition drives her to work long hours every day."
  • "The need for a better life drove him to leave his home country."
  • "What drives you to succeed in your career?"
  • "The fear of failure drove them to complete the project early."
  • "The passion for technology drives innovation in the company."
verb

To push or force something into a certain direction or state, often with strength or authority.

Examples

  • "He drove the team to victory with his leadership."
  • "The storm drove the ship toward the rocks."
  • "She drove her point home during the debate."
  • "They drove the negotiations to a successful conclusion."
  • "The manager drove the company’s expansion into new markets."
noun

A journey or trip in a vehicle, often referring to a leisurely or short trip.

Examples

  • "Let's go for a drive to the countryside this weekend."
  • "They took a long drive through the mountains."
  • "How about a night drive around the city?"
  • "She enjoys taking drives to clear her mind."
  • "He decided to go for a drive after work to unwind."
noun

The internal force or motivation that propels someone to achieve their goals or pursue success.

Examples

  • "His drive for success is unmatched in the industry."
  • "She has the drive to make a difference in the world."
  • "Without drive, it's hard to succeed in competitive fields."
  • "Her drive and determination helped her overcome many obstacles."
  • "I admire his drive to improve himself every day."

Cultural Context

The word 'drive' has been used for centuries, originating from Old English 'drīfan' meaning 'to push' or 'to force.' Over time, it has come to represent both literal and metaphorical motion, extending to the personal and professional realms as well.

The Drive to Succeed

Story

The Drive to Succeed

James had always been a dreamer, someone who sought to change the world in his own small way. But there was something more than just ideas in his heart—it was a burning drive. Every morning, he got into his car, driving across town to his startup’s office. The drive itself, just the motion of the wheels on the road, cleared his mind. But beyond that, it was the force inside him, the need to succeed, that powered his every move. One day, on his way to a meeting with investors, James found himself stuck in traffic. He drummed his fingers on the steering wheel, growing impatient. But instead of getting frustrated, he remembered why he had started his company in the first place: his drive to create something meaningful. He took a deep breath, his thoughts turning back to his mission. When James arrived at the meeting, the investors were skeptical. They asked tough questions, testing his resolve. But James was ready. His drive, his unrelenting desire to make his vision a reality, drove his responses with confidence. 'This project will revolutionize the industry,' he said, his voice steady. 'I’m not just asking for funding—I’m asking for a partnership in success.' The investors were impressed. Later that day, when James sat in his car again, reflecting on his accomplishment, he realized that it wasn’t just the physical drive that had gotten him to this point. It was his ambition, his drive to succeed, that had shaped every decision, every action. As he drove home, the road stretched out before him. It was the same road he’d traveled for years, but tonight, it felt different. The drive was no longer just a journey—it was a reflection of the fire within him. And that fire, he knew, would keep him moving forward, no matter what.

The Drive to Succeed