# DUI

/ˈdiˈjuˈaɪ/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dui
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. driving under the influence

noun · CEFR C1 · American English · Technical

Stands for Driving Under the Influence. This is the legal term for driving a car after drinking alcohol or using drugs.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Driving Under the Influence. This refers to the criminal act of operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs, or the legal charge resulting from it.

- He lost his driving license after he was arrested for a DUI last summer.
- The defendant faced a mandatory license suspension and a heavy fine following his second DUI conviction in three years.

Usage: Often used with the verbs 'get', 'receive', or 'be charged with'.

Teaching tip: This term is standard in the United States and Canada; in the UK and Australia, 'drink-driving' or 'driving over the limit' are more common.

## Examples

- He lost his license after getting a DUI last summer.
- The police officer performed a roadside sobriety test before arresting the driver for a DUI.
- While some jurisdictions use different terminology like DWI, a DUI conviction typically results in heavy fines, mandatory education programs, and a temporary suspension of driving privileges.

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