driving force

Idioms  

1. The impetus, power, or energy behind something in motion, as in He was clearly the driving force in the new administration. This term transfers the force that sets in motion an engine or vehicle to other enterprises. Ralph Waldo Emerson was among the first to use it figuratively (English Traits, 1856): “The ability of its journals is the driving force.”

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Example Sentences

Williams had said the chance to play in front of her children was the driving force behind her sensational return and she provided a memorable moment for them.

From Barron's • Jun. 9, 2026

As theaters continue to navigate rough waters amid hopes of a durable post-pandemic recovery, celebrity buyers have become a driving force in the effort to preserve some of L.A.’s historic venues.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2026

Waller was a driving force behind the Fed’s three rate cuts in the second half of last year.

From MarketWatch • May 23, 2026

The One Ring, a symbol of power and the driving force behind Tolkien's saga dominates the reverse, or tails side of the 50p coin.

From BBC • May 20, 2026

The women were worried that without Marina’s driving force behind them, they would be disbanded.

From "A Thousand Sisters" by Elizabeth Wein