Synonyms for

Drives

Verb / draɪvz / Another word for drives — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to operate a vehicle in order to go somewhere; to have an urge or need to do something

Synonyms & similar words

motor labor drivingforce forceback movement ride get aim take labour driveway tug drive repulse beatback parkway privateroad campaign thrust cause driving push force repel attract operates maneuvers steers directs moves travels commutes motivates compels forces impels pushes spurs propels prompts incites stimulates animates inspires excites

Synonyms by register

Formal

impetus motivation compulsion propulsion

Informal

urge push go oomph

Literary

zeal ardor passion

Antonyms

idleness laziness apathy lethargy passivity indifference

Common collocations

  • strong drive
  • career drive
  • driving force
  • drive for success
  • sense of drive
  • drive to succeed
  • inner drive

Word family

noun drive
verb drive
adjective driving
adverb drivingly

Usage note

As a noun, 'drive' often refers to a strong motivation or ambition. As a verb, it means to operate a vehicle or to propel something forward.

Example sentences

  1. My dad drives a truck for work.
  2. She drives a red sports car.
  3. I learned how to drive when I was 16.
  4. He has a strong drive to become a doctor.
  5. She had a sudden drive to start exercising.

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