a powerful driving force

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a powerful driving force" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a strong influence or motivation behind an action, event, or change. Example: "Innovation has become a powerful driving force in the tech industry, pushing companies to constantly evolve and improve their products."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

Perfluoroalkyl chains provide a powerful driving force for self-assembly and ordering.

Biochimie

RNA recombination is a powerful driving force behind the evolution and adaptation of RNA viruses.

Journal of Molecular Biology

Zils believes start ups and SMEs could prove a powerful driving force behind the circular economy, particularly in areas like recommerce, material innovation and business model innovation.

The Guardian

Intramolecular strain is a powerful driving force for rapid and selective chemical reactions, and it is the cornerstone of strain-induced bioconjugation.

Chem

Among the post-World War II generations of Koreans, a desire to surpass Japan — and fear that they could once again be subjugated by a larger neighbor — remains a powerful driving force.

The New York Times

Envy may be a sin in some books, but it is a powerful driving force in Silicon Valley, where technical achievements are admired but financial payoffs are the ultimate form of recognition.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

But he fails to mention a potential powerful driving force behind the push for HS2: namely, the desire to make a grand project happen.

The Economist

The urgency you get from spending and making your own money is the most powerful driving force for an entrepreneur.

Stanford University

Another powerful driving force is nostalgia, especially for childhood innocence.

The Guardian - Music

A 2008 report prepared for the United Nations by an independent commission confirmed that "men who buy sex are the single-most powerful driving force in Asia's HIV epidemics".

The Economist

Lewis Rice Jr., the special agent in charge of the D.E.A.'s New York division, said there is one powerful, driving force behind the stunning growth in the drug's popularity: profit.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a powerful driving force", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being influenced or driven. Be specific to enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a powerful driving force" as a generic descriptor. Replace it with more precise language to highlight the specific nature of the influence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a powerful driving force" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It identifies something that exerts a significant influence. Ludwig AI examples showcase its use in describing factors that propel evolution, innovation, or societal change.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a powerful driving force" is a common phrase used to describe something that exerts a strong influence or motivation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and versatility across diverse contexts, including science, news, and business. While alternatives like "a significant catalyst" or "a major impetus" exist, "a powerful driving force" effectively conveys sustained and impactful influence. When using the phrase, clarity is key; ensure the context specifies what is being influenced. Avoid overuse in vague situations, opting for more precise language where possible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a significant catalyst

Focuses on the idea of initiating or accelerating change, differing from 'driving force' which emphasizes sustained influence.

a powerful engine

Shifts the metaphor to one of propulsion, offering a more vivid image of sustained influence.

a major impetus

Implies a strong initial push or motivation, while 'driving force' suggests ongoing influence.

a potent motivator

Highlights the ability to inspire action, whereas 'driving force' emphasizes a broader influence.

a compelling influence

Emphasizes the persuasive nature of the force, unlike 'driving force' which focuses on action.

a strong determinant

Suggests a decisive factor, while 'driving force' implies a more continuous and active influence.

a key factor

Highlights importance, but lacks the dynamism implied by "driving force".

a central element

Points to necessity, missing the forceful aspect of "driving force".

a primary cause

Indicates origin, differing from sustained impact of "driving force".

a fundamental reason

Explains rationale, deviating from active influence of "driving force".

FAQs

How can I use "a powerful driving force" in a sentence?

Use "a powerful driving force" to describe something that strongly influences or motivates an action or event. For example, "Technological innovation is "a powerful driving force" behind economic growth".

What are some alternatives to "a powerful driving force"?

You can use alternatives like "a significant catalyst", "a major impetus", or "a potent motivator" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "driving force" or "motivating factor"?

"Driving force" implies a sustained and active influence, while "motivating factor" suggests a reason for action. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean when something is described as "a powerful driving force"?

It means that the thing being described has a strong and significant impact, pushing or compelling something else to move forward or change.