hard-driving
UK[ˌhɑːd ˈdraɪvɪŋ]US[ˌhɑːrd ˈdraɪvɪŋ]
adj
very aggressive, determined, and ambitious in trying to achieve success
Morpheme Breakdown
hard
driving
hard
forceful
driving
pushing forward
Etymology
the compound adjective 'hard-driving' is a modern formation from two english elements of germanic origin. 'hard' derives from old english 'heard', meaning solid, severe, or forceful, which itself traces back to the proto-germanic 'hardu-'. 'driving' originates from the old english verb 'drīfan', meaning to propel or urge forward, from proto-germanic 'drībaną'. the term's logic is transparently metaphorical, combining the sense of forceful, unyielding effort ('hard') with the continuous, propulsive action of pushing toward a goal ('driving'). it emerged in the 20th century to describe a personality or style characterized by relentless ambition and aggressive pursuit of objectives, reflecting cultural values of industriousness and determination.
Analysis
Structure: hard (forceful) + driving (pushing forward)
hard (old english, meaning 'forceful, severe, intense'); driving (from the verb 'drive', old english, meaning 'to propel, urge forward'; here used as a participial adjective meaning 'pushing forward').
Examples
he was known as a hard-driving executive who expected the same dedication from his team.
her hard-driving approach to the campaign led to impressive results but also caused some team burnout.
the company's hard-driving culture fosters innovation but can be stressful for employees.