Driving force

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Driving force" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a person, idea, or factor that is a primary motivator or catalyst for change or action. Example: "Innovation has always been the driving force behind our company's success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Driving force behind devolution.

Independent

Driving force Fernandes.

The Guardian - Sport

Driving force Cavallino Rampante.

The Guardian - Sport

Driving force of Gove reforms.

The Guardian

Driving force of type k.

Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology

Her Driving Force.

Science Magazine

"And we're the driving force.

The New York Times - Sports

That's my driving force.

The New York Times - Magazine

The work was Hollander's driving force.

The New York Times - Sports

The chief driving force has been software.

The Economist

Who will have the driving force?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Driving force", ensure that the context clearly establishes what is being driven or motivated. Specify the outcome or result that the force is contributing to, for example, "Innovation is the driving force behind our product development".

Common error

Avoid using "Driving force" as a vague descriptor without a clear connection to a specific outcome or objective. Instead of saying "Teamwork is a driving force", specify what teamwork achieves, such as "Teamwork is the driving force behind our project's success".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Driving force" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or an appositive. It identifies the entity that propels action or change. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "Driving force" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a primary motivator or influence. As confirmed by Ludwig, it finds frequent use across news, scientific, and formal business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the outcome being driven. Alternatives such as "Prime mover" or "Key influence" can offer nuanced variations. Although its AI found it "correct and usable", overuse in generic contexts should be avoided to maintain impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Prime mover

Emphasizes the role of initiating or setting something in motion.

Key influence

Highlights the aspect of having a significant impact or effect.

Main impetus

Focuses on the stimulation or encouragement behind an action.

Central factor

Underscores the importance of being a crucial element.

Core motivator

Stresses the aspect of providing the reason or incentive.

Underlying cause

Points to the fundamental reason or origin of something.

Principal agent

Highlights the role of being primarily responsible for a result.

Root driver

Emphasizes the fundamental component that causes something to develop.

Chief instigator

Focuses on the aspect of initiating or provoking an action or event.

Primary engine

Highlights the role of being the main mechanism that powers something.

FAQs

How can I use "Driving force" in a sentence?

Use "Driving force" to describe a person, thing, or concept that strongly motivates or influences a particular outcome. For example, "Ambition was the driving force behind her success."

What are some alternatives to "Driving force"?

You can use alternatives like "prime mover", "key influence", or "main impetus" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say 'a driving force' or simply 'driving force'?

Both are correct, depending on the context. Use "a driving force" when referring to one of several factors. Use "driving force" without the article when referring to the primary or overarching influence.

What is the difference between "Driving force" and "Motivation"?

"Driving force" implies a broader, more impactful influence or cause, while "Motivation" refers to the internal reasons or desires that prompt someone to act. "Driving force" can be external, while motivation is usually internal.