Drive with caution

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Drive with caution" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to advise someone to be careful while driving, especially in potentially hazardous conditions. Example: "As you approach the construction zone, please drive with caution to ensure everyone's safety."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Drive with caution, especially on winding or thin roads or when driving with cross winds.

WikiHow

Drive with caution and watch out for turns, because golf carts are easy to lose control or flip over.

WikiHow

He said: "We advise motorists to drive with caution in the adverse conditions, moderate their speed and check their routes in advance.

The Guardian

But with that right comes a responsibility to drive with caution and care -- it is a privilege that can be taken away -- and that's why a license is involved.

The New York Times

Newport Beach police started parking their squad cars at various intersections where the traffic lights didn't work to warn motorists to drive with caution, according to police officers.

Los Angeles Times

The governor on Wednesday urged people to drive with caution and "keep a close eye on forecasts and flood watches," as the state expects to see heavy rainstorms and possible flash floods through the rest of the week.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Often, veterans with PTSD will drive with excessive caution — or stop driving altogether.

The New York Times

Forecasters issued yellow "be aware" wind warnings as gusts reached 83mph in Tibenham Airfield, near Norwich, and 78mph in Aberdaron, Wales, while police urged motorists to drive with "extreme caution" amid wintry conditions in Scotland.

The Times

Police have asked motorists to drive with "extreme caution".

BBC

The police are asking motorists to drive with "extreme caution".

BBC

"Please be aware of the advice being issued, and drive with extra caution and use common sense in challenging situations".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When advising someone to "drive with caution", specify the reason for caution, such as "drive with caution due to icy conditions" for clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "drive with caution" metaphorically in situations unrelated to operating a vehicle. Opt for phrases like "proceed with caution" or "approach with care" when the context is not about driving.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Drive with caution" functions primarily as an imperative, urging the listener or reader to take specific action. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English. It's a direct instruction intended to promote safe driving habits.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Drive with caution" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that serves as a direct imperative to encourage safe driving habits. As noted by Ludwig, it's a usable phrase in written English, commonly appearing in news reports, public safety announcements, and general advisory contexts. The phrase is most frequently found in "News & Media" and "Wiki" contexts, with a neutral register suitable for broad audiences. When using this phrase, specifying the reason for caution enhances its impact, but avoid using it metaphorically in non-driving scenarios. Related phrases include "proceed carefully" and "exercise vigilance while driving", offering alternative ways to convey similar messages.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Be careful while operating a vehicle

Emphasizes general carefulness, applicable to any vehicle.

Operate the vehicle safely

Highlights safe operation as the primary goal.

Exercise vigilance while driving

Focuses on maintaining a state of alert awareness while driving.

Pay close attention to the road

Emphasizes focusing intently on the road and its conditions.

Stay alert behind the wheel

Directly addresses the driver's alertness.

Navigate with increased awareness

Suggests a higher level of consciousness is necessary.

Proceed attentively on the road

Highlights the need for attention while driving.

Mind how you drive

A more direct and cautionary instruction.

Take heed while driving

Emphasizes paying careful attention and being cautious while driving.

Handle the vehicle with care

Focuses on the delicate handling of the vehicle itself.

FAQs

What does "Drive with caution" mean?

"Drive with caution" means to operate a vehicle carefully and attentively, especially when there are potential hazards or risks present. It's an advisory phrase used to promote safety while driving.

When should I use the phrase "Drive with caution"?

You should use "Drive with caution" when you want to advise someone to be extra careful while driving, such as during bad weather, in construction zones, or on unfamiliar roads. It's appropriate for situations where increased vigilance is necessary to prevent accidents.

What are some alternative phrases to "Drive with caution"?

Some alternative phrases include "proceed carefully", "drive safely", or "exercise vigilance while driving". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality desired.

Is it grammatically correct to say "Drive with caution"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase "Drive with caution" is a common and accepted way to advise careful driving. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.