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Self-driving

UK //ˈsɛlfˈdraɪvɪŋ//US //ˈsɛlfˈdraɪvɪŋ//

Definition

A vehicle that can drive itself without human input using advanced technology.

In simple words: A car that drives itself without a human driver.

Examples

  • The self-driving car navigated through traffic effortlessly.
  • Many companies are testing self-driving technology for future transportation.
  • Self-driving vehicles promise to reduce accidents caused by human error.
  • She feels safer riding in a self-driving car than in a regular one.
  • The self-driving system uses various sensors to detect obstacles.

Usage notes

Use 'self-driving' to describe cars equipped with technology for autonomous operation. It's suitable in technical discussions but should be avoided in casual conversation unless relevant.

Grammar pattern

adjective + noun

Memory hint

Think of a car that is 'self'-sufficient, driving itself without help.

Collocations

  • self-driving technology
  • self-driving vehicle
  • self-driving software

Synonyms

  • autonomous
  • driverless
  • automatic

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'driverless', which may imply no human control at all.
  • Using it as a verb instead of an adjective.
  • Overgeneralizing to mean all automation, not just vehicles.