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ride along

B1 neutral inseparable intransitive
In simple words

To go with someone in their car or on their journey, usually just to watch or keep them company.

Literal meaning: To ride in the same direction, alongside someone.

Meanings

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."

Grammar: inseparable
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."

Grammar: 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."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

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.

Commonly used with

police ambulance patrol trip journey friend

Forms

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

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Synonyms

come along tag along join accompany go with

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