Driven: meaning, definitions and examples

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driven

 

[ ˈdrɪvən ]

Adjective / Verb
Context #1 | Adjective

in a state of being motivated or determined

Having a strong motivation or determination to achieve a goal or succeed. It is the quality of being compelled by inner desires or external factors to take action.

Synonyms

ambitious, determined, goal-oriented, motivated.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
driven

Used when talking about someone who is very focused on achieving certain goals, often regardless of the challenges. It might imply a level of intensity and sometimes stress.

  • She is a driven entrepreneur who works tirelessly to grow her business.
  • Despite many setbacks, his driven nature kept him moving forward.
motivated

Refers to someone who has a strong desire or incentive to do something. It often emphasizes the internal or external factors that inspire action.

  • She felt highly motivated after attending the inspirational seminar.
  • The team is motivated to win the championship this season.
determined

Used when someone has a firm resolve to achieve something despite difficulties or opposition. It highlights persistence and perseverance.

  • She is determined to finish her degree despite all the challenges she faces.
  • With a determined look, he crossed the finish line first.
ambitious

Used to describe someone who has strong desires and aspirations, often in terms of career or personal achievements. It implies a sense of eagerness and willingness to overcome obstacles.

  • He is an ambitious young lawyer aiming to make a name for himself in the legal industry.
  • Her ambitious plans include climbing Mount Everest next year.
goal-oriented

Describes someone who focuses on setting and achieving specific goals. It implies a structured and systematic approach to tasks.

  • As a goal-oriented manager, he always sets clear objectives for his team.
  • Her goal-oriented mindset helps her excel in her projects.

Examples of usage

  • She is a driven individual who never gives up on her dreams.
  • His driven personality pushes him to always strive for excellence.
  • I admire her driven attitude towards her career goals.
Context #2 | Verb

past participle of drive

Having operated or controlled a vehicle or machine in the past. It can also refer to being guided or influenced by something.

Synonyms

controlled, guided, operated.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
driven

Used to describe someone who is very motivated or a process powered by something specific.

  • She is a driven individual who will stop at nothing to achieve her goals
  • The factory's production is driven by advanced technology
operated

Used to describe the functioning or manipulation of equipment, machines, or systems.

  • The crane was operated by a skilled technician
  • This factory is operated 24/7 to meet the high demand
controlled

Used to describe something that is regulated or governed by a person, system, or mechanism.

  • The temperature in the laboratory is controlled to ensure consistent results
  • He kept his emotions tightly controlled during the negotiation
guided

Used when someone or something is directed or influenced by another party or factor.

  • The new employees were guided through the onboarding process by their mentors
  • The ship was guided to the harbor by the lighthouse

Examples of usage

  • She has driven a car since she was sixteen.
  • He was driven by his love for music to pursue a career in the industry.

Translations

Translations of the word "driven" in other languages:

🇵🇹 motivado

🇮🇳 प्रेरित

🇩🇪 getrieben

🇮🇩 didorong

🇺🇦 мотивований

🇵🇱 napędzany

🇯🇵 駆動された

🇫🇷 poussé

🇪🇸 impulsado

🇹🇷 güdümlü

🇰🇷 구동된

🇸🇦 مدفوع

🇨🇿 poháněný

🇸🇰 poháňaný

🇨🇳 驱动的

🇸🇮 gnan

🇮🇸 knúinn

🇰🇿 жетектелген

🇬🇪 მოძრავი

🇦🇿 idarə olunan

🇲🇽 impulsado

Etymology

The word 'driven' originates from the Old English word 'drīfan', meaning 'to urge forward'. It has evolved over the centuries to encompass the meanings of motivation, determination, and control. The adjective form of 'driven' has become popular in modern usage to describe individuals with a strong desire to succeed.

See also: drive, drivel, driver, drivers, drives, driving.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,058, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.