driven

word · lemma: drive

/ˈdɹɪvən/
DRI-vuhn
/dɹˈɪvən/
DRI-vuhn

Definition

As an adjective, 'driven' describes someone who is very motivated and determined to succeed. It can also describe something moved or controlled by a force, engine, or idea.

Usage & Nuances

Most often, 'driven' is positive and means highly ambitious: 'a driven student', 'a driven leader'. In technical contexts, it can mean powered or operated, as in 'data-driven' or 'computer-driven'. Don't confuse it with the past participle in verb forms like 'has driven'.

Example Sentences

She is a very driven student.

basic

He is driven by the desire to help people.

basic

This machine is driven by electricity.

basic

She's incredibly driven, but she still makes time for her friends.

natural

The whole campaign was driven by social media.

natural

You can tell he's driven—he never settles for average results.

natural