Drive by Meaning in English
expression
Definición
To pass a place or person while driving in a car. In criminal contexts, it can also mean a shooting or attack carried out from a moving vehicle.
Uso & Matices
Informal in both senses. As a neutral phrase, 'drive by' means simply to pass by while driving. In news or police reports, a 'drive-by' usually refers to a criminal shooting or attack from a moving vehicle. Don't confuse with simply 'drive' (to operate a vehicle). The noun 'drive-by' is often hyphenated.
Oraciones de Ejemplo
We drove by the new cafe on our way home.
basic
Don't just drive by; stop and say hello!
basic
Did you see the parade when you drove by City Hall?
basic
There was a drive-by shooting in the neighborhood last night.
natural
People just drive by and never notice the old bookstore.
natural
He slowed down to drive by her house and wave.
natural