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rip along

B2 informal inseparable intransitive

To move very fast along a route, or for something to progress rapidly and energetically.

In plain English

To go very fast, or for something to happen quickly and with a lot of energy.

What does "rip along" mean?

2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.

1 B2 idiomatic informal

To move very quickly and powerfully along a road or route.

"The motorbike ripped along the coastal road doing well over 100 mph."

inseparable
2 B2 idiomatic informal

To progress rapidly and with great energy, especially of a story, project, or activity.

"Once the main conflict was established, the plot really ripped along."

inseparable

Literal vs figurative

Words literally mean

To rip (tear) along a path — moving so fast it feels like tearing through space.

Actually means

To go very fast, or for something to happen quickly and with a lot of energy.

Usage tip

Often used for vehicles, stories, or projects that are progressing with impressive speed and momentum. Conveys enthusiasm or excitement about the pace.

Words that pair with "rip along"

Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.

motorway track narrative plot project road

How to conjugate "rip along"

The five tense forms you'll use most often.

Base
rip along
I/you/we/they
3rd person
rips along
he/she/it
Past simple
riped along
yesterday
Past participle
riped along
have + pp
-ing form
riping along
continuous

Hear "rip along" in the wild

Listen to native speakers using "rip along" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.

Keep exploring

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