drive for show

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "drive for show" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in the context of golf, referring to the idea that one may focus on impressive appearances or skills rather than practical performance. Example: "While he has a great drive for show, it’s his putting that really needs improvement if he wants to win tournaments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

He turned to a saying from golf, a hobby he likes to think he shows talent in: "Short game -- drive for show, putt for dough".

The New York Times - Sports

Like any major championship, the Masters has often boiled down to making or missing crucial putts on the back nine's slippery greens, as defined in one of golf's oldest sayings: "Drive for show.

The New York Times - Sports

Some of the great life lessons that he imparted to family, friends and colleagues were that: "fast payers make good friends", "it's better to one putt than three", and of course, "drive for show but putt for dough".

The New York Times

The first chapter of his book, Every Shot Counts, published in 2014, rips apart assumptions long regarded as sacrosanct, including Bobby Locke's famous maxim: "Drive for show, putt for dough".

The Guardian - Sport

-PETER HEIN Drive for show.

Forbes

You drive for show but putt for dough.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

But it's her enthusiasm that has been the main drive for the show".

The New York Times

But in the 18th century, Houston explains, the impetus to standardise the use of quotation marks came from the "drive for realism" shown by authors such as Daniel Defoe, Henry Fielding and Samuel Richardson as they experimented with the newest form of literature, the novel.

The Guardian - Books

The ensuing drive for SMU showed promise after they got into Bulldog territory, but an interception by Sean Alston returned for 50 yards to the SMU 15 ended any chance of scoring for the Mustangs.

Wikipedia

Money isn't the only reason for this universal drive for the big show, although it's a strong one.

Independent

Search the exterior of the drive for a diagram showing the different jumper settings for the modes.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "drive for show", consider the context to ensure it effectively conveys the intended meaning of prioritizing initial impressions or superficial appearances over long-term results or substance. It's often used in contrast to "putt for dough", emphasizing the importance of practical skill.

Common error

Avoid using "drive for show" when you actually mean to emphasize the importance of a strong beginning that leads to success. The phrase implies that the initial action might be impressive but ultimately less impactful than what follows.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "drive for show" functions as a noun phrase, often part of the larger idiom "drive for show, putt for dough". It describes the act of prioritizing impressive, often superficial actions, particularly in the context of golf or other competitive endeavors. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "drive for show" is a common and grammatically correct phrase, often paired with "putt for dough", used to highlight the difference between impressive displays and practical outcomes. Originating from golf, its usage extends to various contexts, emphasizing the importance of substance over mere appearances. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is suitable for written English and is frequently found in news and media sources. When using this phrase, ensure the context aligns with its implication of prioritizing initial impressions that may not translate into long-term success. Alternatives such as "showy performance" or "flashy display" can provide similar nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Showy performance

Indicates an action is done with the primary intention of impressing others.

Flashy display

Suggests an ostentatious exhibition meant to capture attention.

Superficial display

Implies something is presented for show without deeper merit.

Value image over substance

Highlights the act of prioritizing image, possibly neglecting other important factors.

Emphasis on outward appearance

Stresses the importance of external presentation.

Emphasis on appearances

Focuses on the superficial aspect, neglecting deeper qualities.

Surface-level appeal

Highlights that only the surface is attractive or impressive.

Prioritizing first impressions

Highlights the importance of initial impact.

Focus on the presentation

Shifts the attention to how something is presented rather than its content.

Focus on aesthetics

Changes from 'driving' to focusing on visual appeal and design.

FAQs

What does the idiom "drive for show, putt for dough" mean?

The idiom "drive for show, putt for dough" means that while a long drive in golf might be impressive, the short putts are what ultimately win the game. More generally, it suggests that flashy initial actions are less important than solid, consistent performance in the long run.

What can I say instead of "drive for show"?

You can use alternatives like "showy performance", "flashy display", or "superficial display" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "drive for show, putt for dough" in a business context?

Yes, it can be used metaphorically in a business context to illustrate that while making a grand initial gesture or presentation might impress, consistent execution and attention to detail are what ultimately lead to success.

How can I use the phrase "drive for show, putt for dough" in a sentence?

You might say, "Their marketing campaign had a great drive for show, generating a lot of buzz, but they need to focus on the putt for dough—converting that attention into actual sales."