do not drive

USAGE SUMMARY

"do not drive" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used as a command or instruction to someone to not operate a vehicle. Example: "Please do not drive after consuming alcohol."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Prima donnas do not drive.

The New York Times - Magazine

Most do not drive.

The New York Times

Do not drive at night.

The New York Times - Travel

Witnesses do not drive by often.

The Guardian

Material conditions do not drive history.

The New York Times

Do not drive the nails home.

The New York Times

Many New Yorkers do not drive.

The New York Times

Do not drive at more than 40mph.

The Guardian - Opinion

For the next 45 days, you do not drive.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I still do not drive the car to work.

The New York Times

Others do not drive because of physical or medical limitations.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing instructions or warnings related to safety, use "do not drive" followed by a clear explanation of the reason (e.g., "Do not drive while under the influence of alcohol".)

Common error

Avoid using "do not drive" in contexts where a general inability to drive is implied. Instead, specify the reason or condition preventing driving (e.g., "Many New Yorkers do not drive" to indicate a lifestyle choice, rather than a temporary restriction.)

Linguistic Context

The phrase "do not drive" functions primarily as an imperative, giving a direct command or instruction. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's a clear directive, often found in safety guidelines or warnings. Examples include "Do not drive at night" and "Do not drive drunk."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "do not drive" is a common imperative phrase used to directly instruct or advise against operating a vehicle. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable. It's primarily found in news and media, wiki entries, and scientific contexts, serving to warn or prohibit driving under specific circumstances. Related phrases offer alternatives in formality and emphasis, but the core message remains consistent: avoid driving when conditions are unsafe. Proper usage involves clear and specific contexts to prevent misunderstandings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

don't drive

A contraction of "do not drive" making it more casual.

refrain from driving

Uses a more formal verb to convey the same message.

avoid driving

Suggests taking action to prevent driving.

do not operate a vehicle

More formal and explicitly specifies what not to do.

it is unsafe to drive

Emphasizes the danger associated with driving.

driving is prohibited

A passive construction indicating a rule or regulation.

you must not drive

Conveys a stronger sense of obligation or rule.

do not get behind the wheel

An idiomatic expression with the same meaning.

it's best not to drive

A softer suggestion against driving.

is better if you don't drive

A softer suggestion against driving.

FAQs

How can I use "do not drive" in a sentence?

Use "do not drive" to directly advise or instruct someone to avoid operating a vehicle, especially when there are specific risks or conditions, like "do not drive when tired" or "do not drive after drinking".

What's a more formal way to say "do not drive"?

For a more formal tone, you can use phrases such as "refrain from driving" or "do not operate a vehicle".

When is it appropriate to use "avoid driving" instead of "do not drive"?

"Avoid driving" suggests a proactive choice to prevent a situation, while "do not drive" is a direct instruction. For example, "avoid driving at night" implies planning, whereas "do not drive if you are feeling unwell" is a specific warning.

Is "don't drive" the same as "do not drive"?

Yes, "don't drive" is a contraction of "do not drive" and carries the same meaning. "Don't drive" is more casual and frequently used in everyday conversation, while "do not drive" is slightly more formal.