1 B2 idiomatic neutral
To try to say or suggest something, especially in an indirect way; to be working toward a particular conclusion in what you are saying.
"I'm not sure I follow — what exactly are you driving at?"
inseparable
drive at
B2 neutral inseparable transitive
To be trying to say or suggest something; to be working toward a particular point or conclusion.
In plain English
What are you really trying to say? What is the point you are heading toward?
What does "drive at" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To steer a vehicle in the direction of something.
Actually means
What are you really trying to say? What is the point you are heading toward?
Usage tip
Almost always used in questions: 'What are you driving at?' Signals that the listener does not yet understand the speaker's true intention or point. Common in British and American English.
Words that pair with "drive at"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
point conclusion something idea suggestion
How to conjugate "drive at"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
drive at
I/you/we/they
3rd person
drives at
he/she/it
Past simple
drove at
yesterday
Past participle
driven at
have + pp
-ing form
driving at
continuous
Hear "drive at" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "drive at" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "drive at"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
Keep exploring
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