Definition of Drive (meaning 1 of 4 — verb)
Quick Meaning of Drive
To operate a car, truck, or other vehicle by controlling its direction and speed.
Detailed Definition of Drive
To operate and control a motor vehicle.
How to Pronounce Drive
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: The long 'i' sound in the middle is like the 'i' in 'site'. The 'v' at the end is soft, not like 'f'.
Watch out: Learners sometimes say /drɪv/ instead of /draɪv/, making the vowel short instead of long.
Other Meanings of Drive
“Drive” has 4 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 3:
#2 Drive as a noun
A journey in a car or other vehicle from one place to another.
take a drive
#3 Drive as a noun
A strong feeling inside you that makes you want to succeed or achieve something.
have drive
#4 Drive as a verb
To push or force someone to do something or to cause strong feelings or behavior.
drive someone to do something
How to Use Drive in a Sentence
Each example shows “drive” in the meaning “To operate a car, truck, or other vehicle…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“I drive to work every day.”
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“Can you drive a car?”
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“When you drive carefully, you stay safe.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Drive
Common Synonyms for Drive
Smart Synonyms for Drive — When to Use Each
- operate
- for any machine or vehicle in formal contexts
- pilot
- for aircraft or ships with skilled navigation
- ride
- when you are a passenger rather than driver
Common Collocations with Drive
These phrases pair with “drive” in everyday English:
- drive a car
- drive safely
- drive fast
- drive to work
- take a drive
Common Mistakes When Using Drive
Even fluent speakers slip up with “drive”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: She drive to work every day.
- ✓ Correct: She drives to work every day.
- Why: Third person singular present tense requires -s ending on the verb.
- ✗ Wrong: He is drove the truck.
- ✓ Correct: He is driving the truck.
- Why: Use gerund (driving) after 'is', not past tense (drove).
Words Confused With Drive
- Drive vs Ride: 'Ride' means to sit on or in a vehicle as a passenger, not control it. Compare →
- Drive vs Steer: 'Steer' is just turning the wheel; 'drive' includes speed and overall control.
Other Forms of Drive
Frequently Asked Questions About Drive
What is the meaning of "Drive"?
To operate a car, truck, or other vehicle by controlling its direction and speed.
How do you pronounce "Drive"?
The IPA is /draɪv/. The long 'i' sound in the middle is like the 'i' in 'site'. The 'v' at the end is soft, not like 'f'.
What part of speech is "Drive"?
"Drive" is a verb at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Drive"?
Common synonyms include operate, pilot, control.
How do you use "Drive" in a sentence?
For example: "I drive to work every day."