Browse all

tag along

B1 informal inseparable intransitive
In simple words

Go with a group of people even though you weren't really asked to join

Literal meaning: To attach a tag to yourself and come along — the image of attaching loosely to a group.

Meanings

1 B1 idiomatic informal

To go somewhere with a person or group, especially without being formally invited

"My little brother always wants to tag along when I go out with my friends."

"Can I tag along?"

— Common idiomatic dialogue; attributed widely in American film and television (e.g., used in Friends, Season 1)
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 idiomatic informal

To continue to be attached to or associated with something over time, often unnecessarily

"Old habits tend to tag along even when you're trying to change."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Often implies the person joining was not originally invited, though it can also be used neutrally. The tone can be slightly negative (implying the person is unwanted) or affectionate (a child tagging along with a parent). Commonly followed by 'with': 'tag along with someone'.

Commonly used with

friend group family trip wherever crowd

Forms

Base
tag along
I/you/we/they
3rd person
tags along
he/she/it
Past simple
taged along
yesterday
Past participle
taged along
have + pp
-ing form
taging along
continuous

Understand "tag along" better

Try:

Real video examples

Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.

Want to master this phrasal verb?

Practice "tag along" on Looplines