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UKdrive sb to distraction
/dɹˈaɪv ˌɛsbˈiː tə dɪstɹˈakʃən/
/dɹˈaɪv ˌɛsbˈiː tə dɪstɹˈækʃən/to drive sb to distraction
[PHRASE]
![to [drive] {sb} to distraction definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/42588/original/ "to [drive] {sb} to distraction definition and meaning")
What is the origin of the idiom "drive someone to distraction" and when to use it?
The phrase "drive someone to distraction" has its origins in English language usage and dates back several centuries. The exact origin of the phrase is difficult to pinpoint, as it has evolved over time through common usage. This expression can be used to describe a range of scenarios, such as relentless noise, incessant demands, constant criticism, unending stress, or ongoing problems that become overwhelming and affect one's ability to think clearly or function properly.
Examples
1. The baby’s constant crying drove me to distraction.
2. His constant invasion of her privacy was driving her to distraction.
3. Now we're testing app and online-based mindfulness training programs that target these core mechanisms and, ironically, use the same technology that's driving us to distraction to help us step out of our unhealthy habit patterns of smoking, of stress eating and other addictive behaviors.
4. You know, I'm not speaking for the world, but it drives me to distraction when I see families being pulled apart or they're not together.
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