C1noun3K

Motorist

UK /["/ˈməʊtərɪst/"]/US /["/ˈməʊtərɪst/"]/

Definition

a person driving a car

In simple words: A person who drives a car.

Examples

  • The accident was reported by a passing motorist.
  • Motorists who fail to stop risk an even higher penalty.
  • Motorists are being encouraged to switch to public transport.
  • Motorists face being hit even harder by rising taxes.
  • Police had to rescue stranded motorists.

Usage notes

Use 'motorist' in discussions about traffic, driving laws, or road safety. It’s suitable for formal and informal contexts but may not fit in casual conversations focused on personal stories.

Grammar pattern

motorist + noun

Memory hint

Think 'motor' + 'ist' — like a scientist of motors, focusing on those who drive.

Collocations

  • careless motorist
  • licensed motorist
  • distracted motorist

Synonyms

  • driver
  • vehicle operator
  • car user
  • automobile operator

Antonyms

  • pedestrian
  • cyclist

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'motorist' with 'driver'; 'motorist' typically refers to those in vehicles, while 'driver' includes those operating all types of transport.
  • Using 'motorist' when referring to cyclists or pedestrians.
  • Assuming all motorists are in cars; the term generally implies those using motor vehicles, not just cars.