ENGLISH
REFERENCE

drive home

phrasal verb.
Definition

phrasal verb. to make someone fully understand or accept the importance of a point or idea. You use this when you want to emphasize something very clearly.

phrasal verb. to cause someone to fully grasp or appreciate the significance of a point or argument through repeated or forceful explanation.


SIMPLE

He tried to drive home the importance of safety.

CONTEXTUAL

The manager had to drive home the message that the project deadline was non-negotiable.

COMPLEX

The documentary uses harrowing footage to drive home the devastating impact of climate change on coastal communities.

Usage

The phrasal verb is transitive and takes a direct object; it is often used with the preposition 'to' when introducing the person being convinced.

Pitfall

drive home the point to himdrive the point home to himThe object can be placed between the verb and the particle 'home' for emphasis.

Last updated July 27, 2026