Differences between come along and tag along
Come along means to accompany someone or to make progress, while tag along means to follow someone else's lead or to join someone without being invited.
Meanings and Definitions: come along vs tag along
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Come along
- 1Accompany.
May I COME ALONG on your trip tomorrow?
- 2Move faster or keep up.
COME ALONG, we'll never get there if you don't keep up with us.
Tag along
- 1Accompany someone, especially if they haven't specifically invited you.
You're off to the cinema; can we TAG ALONG?
Usage Examples: come along, tag along in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
come along
Example
May I come along on your trip tomorrow?
Example
She always comes along when we go shopping.
tag along
Example
My little brother always wants to tag along when I go out with my friends.
Example
She tags along with her coworkers to lunch every day.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Come along
keep up
To maintain the same pace or level as others in an activity or situation.
Example
She had to run faster to keep up with the rest of the group during the marathon.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tag along
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “come”
Phrasal Verbs with “along”
Differences in come along vs tag along: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: come along or tag along?
In daily conversation, people use come along more often than tag along. This is because come along is used for a wider range of situations such as inviting someone to join an activity or asking someone to accompany you somewhere. Tag along is more specific and implies that the person joining is not necessarily welcome or invited. So, while both phrases are used, come along is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of come along and tag along
Come along and tag along are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of come along and tag along
The tone of come along and tag along can differ based on context. Come along often carries a friendly or encouraging tone when inviting someone to join an activity or making progress. On the other hand, tag along typically has a dismissive or annoyed tone, especially when referring to someone who is following without being invited.
