high drive

USAGE SUMMARY

"high drive" is correct and usable in written English.
It is an idiom that means "to have a lot of ambition and energy; to be highly motivated." For example, you could say: "She had a high drive to succeed, so she worked hard and eventually achieved her goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Palmeiro launched a high drive to right.

The New York Times - Sports

"Stephanie had a high drive for accomplishment.

The New York Times

Stinnett then lofted a high drive to deep left.

The New York Times - Sports

Damon crashed into the left-field wall as he gloved a high drive from Kevin Youkilis.

The New York Times - Sports

Two outs into the second inning, Enrique Wilson lifted a high drive toward right field.

The New York Times - Sports

And in the top of the 11th, Erstad lifted a high drive deep to right field.

The New York Times - Sports

Saltalamacchia lofted a high drive to right-center for Boston's 11th win in 15 games.

The New York Times - Sports

On a three-and-two pitch, soughtoughtoto accommodate, and cracked a long, high drive to center field.

The New York Times - Sports

David Justice pinch-hit for Enrique Wilson and hammered a high drive toward center field, into the wind.

The New York Times - Sports

Soriano, who led off the ninth against Seattle's Jose Paniagua, mashed a high drive to left field.

The New York Times - Sports

Bernie Williams crushed a high drive down the right-field line in the inning, and it hooked foul, barely.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person's character, use "high drive" to emphasize their ambition and proactive nature. For example, "She possesses a "high drive" to excel in her field."

Common error

Avoid using "high drive" to describe simple preferences or minor inclinations. It should be reserved for situations where significant ambition or motivation is evident.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "high drive" functions as an adjective-noun combination, where "high" modifies "drive" to emphasize the intensity or level of motivation. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used to describe individuals possessing significant ambition and energy.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "high drive" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a strong sense of ambition and motivation. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its versatility, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. While "high drive" appears frequently in News & Media and Science, its usage extends to Formal & Business settings as well. Alternative phrases like "strong ambition" or "intense motivation" can be used for variety. Remember, the key to using "high drive" effectively is to reserve it for situations where the intensity of motivation is genuinely significant.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strong ambition

Replaces "drive" with a synonym that emphasizes the desire for achievement.

intense motivation

Focuses on the motivational aspect of "high drive", highlighting the internal force.

great determination

Emphasizes the resolve and persistence associated with "high drive".

considerable initiative

Highlights the proactive nature implied by "high drive".

powerful impetus

Uses a more formal term for the force that propels action, similar to "drive".

fierce energy

Replaces "drive" by highlighting the intense vigor and activity.

burning desire

Emphasizes the passionate and compelling nature of the motivation.

unyielding resolve

Focuses on the firmness and steadfastness of the commitment.

exceptional zeal

Uses a more formal word for enthusiasm and passion.

strong work ethic

Relates to the component of having a dedication to hard work and diligence.

FAQs

How can I use "high drive" in a sentence?

You can use "high drive" to describe someone's intense motivation or ambition, as in "She has a "high drive" to succeed" or "His "high drive" led him to achieve great things".

What's a suitable alternative to "high drive"?

Depending on the context, you could use "strong ambition", "intense motivation", or "great determination" as alternatives to "high drive".

When is it appropriate to use the term "high drive"?

It is appropriate to use "high drive" when describing someone who demonstrates significant ambition, energy, and motivation in pursuing their goals.

Is "high drive" considered formal or informal language?

"High drive" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it may be more common in professional or academic settings when describing someone's work ethic or aspirations.