drift along
B2 informal inseparable intransitive
In simple words
To go through life without any real plan or goal, just letting things happen.
Literal meaning: To float or move gently along a current without steering.
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
informal
To live or pass time without clear purpose, goals, or ambition.
"After university, he just drifted along for a few years, moving from one temporary job to another."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B1 neutral
To move slowly and without effort in a current of water or air.
"The small boat drifted along the river with no one at the helm."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Usually has a slightly negative or melancholy tone, implying a lack of ambition or control. Can also be used more literally for things floating or moving without direction.
Commonly used with
life job relationship career years aimlessly
Forms
Base
drift along
I/you/we/they
3rd person
drifts along
he/she/it
Past simple
drifted along
yesterday
Past participle
drifted along
have + pp
-ing form
drifting along
continuous
Understand "drift along" better
Try:
Real video examples
Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.
Want to master this phrasal verb?
Practice "drift along" on Looplines