A1verb1K

Drive

UK /["/draɪv/","/draɪvz/","/drəʊv/","/ˈdrɪvn/","/ˈdraɪvɪŋ/"]/US /["/draɪv/","/draɪvz/","/drəʊv/","/ˈdrɪvn/","/ˈdraɪvɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to operate a vehicle so that it goes in a particular direction

In simple words: To control a vehicle to take it somewhere.

Examples

  • I like to drive my car to work every day.
  • Please drive carefully in bad weather.
  • He can only drive a manual transmission vehicle.
  • They organized a drive to collect food for the needy.
  • The charity held a fundraising drive last month.

Usage notes

Used to describe operating vehicles like cars, trucks, etc. Generally neutral; can be used in both casual and formal contexts. Avoid using in non-vehicle contexts unless metaphorically (e.g., 'driving change').

Grammar pattern

drive + object

Memory hint

Think of 'drive' as you are in control of the steering 'wheel' — like steering your own path.

Collocations

  • fast
  • quickly
  • slowly
  • down
  • from
  • to
  • drink and drive

Synonyms

  • operate
  • steer
  • navigate
  • control
  • pilot

Antonyms

  • park
  • stop

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'drive' with 'drives', forgetting to add 's' for third person singular.
  • Using 'drive' with plural subjects incorrectly (e.g., 'The cars drives fast').
  • Mistaking 'drive' for 'riding' when referring to passengers.