Another Word for Driven – Meaning, Synonyms, and Examples
The word driven is a powerful adjective meaning to be determined to achieve a goal or highly motivated. To make your English more varied and impactful, learning another word for driven will help. Using synonyms allows you to specify whether you mean ambitious, determined, or energetic.
What is Another Word for Driven?
A great synonym for driven is ambitious. Driven means strongly motivated to succeed. Ambitious means having or showing a strong desire and determination to succeed. Both words describe a person with a powerful internal desire for success and achievement. Learning words like ambitious helps you emphasize the desire for high status or recognition.
Meaning of “Driven”
Driven means strongly motivated to achieve success; or, impelled by a specified factor.
We use it for people (a driven executive) or actions (a decision driven by fear).
Synonyms for “Driven”
Here are some common ways to say driven:
- Ambitious: Having or showing a strong desire and determination to succeed. A strong, widely used alternative.
- Determined: Having made a firm decision and being resolved not to change it. Emphasizes firmness and focus.
- Motivated: Provided with a motive for action; stimulated to act. Focuses on the source of the desire.
- Zealous: Having or showing great energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or objective. Suggests passion and energy.
- Purposeful: Having or showing determination or resolve. Emphasizes having a clear goal.
Example Sentences
- The young scientist was incredibly ambitious and wanted to win a Nobel Prize.
- She was determined to finish the marathon even after injuring her leg.
- A good manager knows how to keep their team motivated during tough projects.
- The whole group was zealous in their fundraising efforts for the shelter.
- Every step he took was purposeful, moving him closer to the finish line.
Mini Dialogue
Sam: “How did Mia get promoted so quickly?”
Mia: “She’s incredibly driven. She sets high goals for herself and works hard to meet them.”
Sam: “That ambitious attitude certainly pays off!”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Don’t say: He is very driven by being a successful person. (The preposition by is usually followed by the motivating factor, not the result.)
✅ Do say: He is driven to be a successful person. (Or: He is driven by his desire for success.)
Let’s Practice!
Which synonym best fits this sentence? “The volunteers were __________ in their efforts to clean up the park before the weekend festival.” (Answer: Zealous – This synonym works best because it refers to having or showing great energy and enthusiasm in the pursuit of an objective.)
Practice Tip
Use one new synonym for driven in your next message or conversation today.
Final Note
Knowing what is another word for driven and practicing synonyms like ambitious and determined will help you describe motivation and focus clearly. I’m here if you need another word!

