Drive Safe vs. Drive Safely – Which is Correct?
When it comes to proper driving etiquette, the phrases “drive safe” and “drive safely” are often debated. While both are commonly heard, only one is grammatically correct. Understanding the usage of each phrase can lead to more precise communication, especially when discussing safety on the road.
Drive Safe or Drive Safely – Which is Correct?
The correct phrase to use is “drive safely.” This is because “safely” is an adverb that describes how one should drive, making it appropriate in this context. While “drive safe” is widely understood in casual conversation, it does not adhere to standard grammatical rules.
| Word | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Drive Safe | Informal usage, but grammatically incorrect in standard English. | “I always tell my friends to drive safe.” |
| Drive Safely | Correct usage, as it describes the manner in which one should drive. | “Remember to drive safely during the storm.” |
How to Use Drive Safely
To use “drive safely” correctly, simply incorporate it into sentences where you want to convey a sense of caution or proper conduct while driving.
Example 1: “Please drive safely on your way home.”
Example 2: “It’s important to drive safely, especially in bad weather.”
Example 3: “The sign reminds all drivers to drive safely at all times.”
What are the different forms of Drive Safely?
“Drive safely” is an adverbial phrase. The verb “drive” can be conjugated based on tense. Its base form is “to drive.” In the present tense, you would say “I drive,” “you drive,” “he/she/it drives,” and so forth. The past tense is “drove,” while the future tense uses “will drive.”
Etymology of the word Drive Safely
The phrase “drive safely” comes from the verb “drive,” which has Middle English origins derived from “driven,” meaning to force or push forward. The adverb “safely” stems from “safe,” which originates from the Latin word “salvus,” meaning whole or uninjured.
Drive Safe Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| N/A | No valid synonyms, as the phrase “drive safe” is colloquially accepted but not grammatically correct. |
Drive Safely Synonyms
| Synonym | Definition |
|---|---|
| Drive cautiously | To drive with care, avoiding hazards. |
| Drive securely | To drive in a manner that minimizes risk and prevents accidents. |
| Drive attentively | To drive while fully concentrating on the task at hand. |
Conclusion
In summary, while both “drive safe” and “drive safely” are used in everyday conversation, only “drive safely” is grammatically correct and should be used to communicate the importance of safe driving practices effectively.
