1 A2 neutral
To travel with someone as a passenger, especially to keep them company or observe.
"Do you mind if I ride along? I have nothing to do this afternoon."
inseparable
ride along
B1 neutral inseparable intransitive
To travel with someone as a passenger or companion, often to observe or simply for company.
In plain English
To go with someone in their car or on their journey, usually just to watch or keep them company.
What does "ride along" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 neutral
(Specifically American English) To accompany a police officer or other professional on duty as an observer.
"The journalism student arranged to ride along with the detective for her investigative piece."
inseparable
3 B2 idiomatic informal
(Figurative) To go along with a situation passively without actively participating.
"He was just riding along with the project without contributing any real ideas."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To ride in the same direction, alongside someone.
Actually means
To go with someone in their car or on their journey, usually just to watch or keep them company.
Usage tip
In American English, 'ride-along' (noun) specifically refers to civilians accompanying police officers on patrol. As a phrasal verb, it can be used more broadly. Very common in North American English.
Words that pair with "ride along"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
police ambulance patrol trip journey friend
How to conjugate "ride along"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
ride along
I/you/we/they
3rd person
rides along
he/she/it
Past simple
rode along
yesterday
Past participle
ridden along
have + pp
-ing form
riding along
continuous
Hear "ride along" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "ride along" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "ride along"
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Keep exploring
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