Drives: meaning, definitions and examples

🚗

Add to dictionary

drives

[draɪvz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in the context of transportation

A person who operates a vehicle.

Synonyms

chauffeur, operator, pilot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
drives	Used to describe the act of controlling a vehicle, commonly a car. General daily usage when someone is operating a vehicle. She drives to work every day. He drives a Toyota.
operator	Used to describe someone who operates machinery or equipment, often in an industrial or technical setting. Can also mean someone who manages a business or system. The crane operator is very skilled at his job. She works as a computer operator in the IT department.
pilot	Refers to someone who flies an aircraft. Aviation context, involving planes, helicopters, and other flying vehicles. The pilot successfully landed the plane despite the bad weather. Being a pilot requires extensive training and certifications.
chauffeur	Refers to a professional driver who drives someone else's car, often for wealthy or important individuals. Formal or luxury setting. The executive was driven to the meeting by his chauffeur. They hired a chauffeur for their wedding day.

Examples of usage

He is a skilled driver.
She learned how to drive at a young age.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

in the context of controlling a vehicle

To control and guide the movement of a vehicle.

Synonyms

navigate, operate, steer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
operate	Used when handling or controlling machinery or equipment, emphasizing the functionality and process. She operates the crane at the construction site He was trained to operate the new manufacturing equipment
steer	Used when directing the course of a vehicle, ship, or other means of transport, often involving wheel or control mechanism. He steered the boat safely to the shore The driver had to steer carefully around the sharp curves
navigate	Used when planning and following a route or path, often with a focus on finding the correct way. He navigated through the forest using a compass She navigates the busy city streets with ease

Word

Description / Examples

operate

Used when handling or controlling machinery or equipment, emphasizing the functionality and process.

She operates the crane at the construction site
He was trained to operate the new manufacturing equipment

steer

Used when directing the course of a vehicle, ship, or other means of transport, often involving wheel or control mechanism.

He steered the boat safely to the shore
The driver had to steer carefully around the sharp curves

navigate

Used when planning and following a route or path, often with a focus on finding the correct way.

He navigated through the forest using a compass
She navigates the busy city streets with ease

Examples of usage

He drives a taxi for a living.
She drives carefully in snowy conditions.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'drive' comes from the Old English 'drīfan', meaning to push or force.
In medieval times, it referred to driving animals, particularly in transportation contexts.
As vehicles became popular, the term evolved to focus on driving cars and other motorized vehicles.

Technology

Advancements in technology have led to the development of self-driving cars, which are being tested worldwide for safety and efficiency.
Electric vehicles have gained popularity, driving a shift towards eco-friendly transport options.
Modern GPS technology aids drivers in navigation, making it easier to find directions and avoid traffic.

Psychology

Studies have shown that driving can trigger feelings of freedom and independence, influencing one's mood positively.
Driving has been associated with a sense of control, which can impact overall mental well-being.
Distracted driving is linked to cognitive overload and can reduce attention, highlighting the importance of focus while on the road.

Culture

Road trips have become a cultural phenomenon, often depicted in movies and songs, celebrating adventure and freedom.
Driving under the influence is strictly regulated due to safety concerns, highlighting the importance of responsible driving.
Music playlists are commonly curated for drives, enhancing the experience and enjoyment of the journey.

Education

Driver’s education programs teach new drivers the rules of the road and safe driving practices.
Learning to drive can enhance a person's job prospects, especially in fields requiring transportation.
Interactive simulations are being used in educational settings to prepare individuals for real-world driving scenarios.

Translations

Translations of the word "drives" in other languages:

🇵🇹 dirige

🇮🇳 चलाता है

🇩🇪 fährt

🇮🇩 mengemudi

🇺🇦 керує

🇵🇱 prowadzi

🇯🇵 運転する

🇫🇷 conduit

🇪🇸 conduce

🇹🇷 sürer

🇰🇷 운전하다

🇸🇦 يقود

🇨🇿 řídí

🇸🇰 riadi

🇨🇳 驾驶

🇸🇮 vozi

🇮🇸 stýrir

🇰🇿 басқарады

🇬🇪 მართავს

🇦🇿 idarə edir

🇲🇽 conduce

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,580 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.

...
5577 ideological
5578 ambition
5579 phrases
5580 drives
5581 openly
5582 solemn
5583 peasants
...