What does “Riding Shotgun” mean?
The phrase "Riding Shotgun" means 'To sit in the front passenger seat of a vehicle.' When someone uses "Riding Shotgun", it refers to the act of occupying the seat next to the driver in a vehicle. It is often associated with preference, privilege, or calling dibs on that particular seat.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
I called shotgun so I could enjoy the front seat view during our road trip.
Example
He loves riding shotgun because he gets to control the music playlist.
Example
She insisted on riding shotgun because she gets carsick in the backseat.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Claiming the front passenger seat
I called shotgun so I could enjoy the front seat view during our road trip.
He loves riding shotgun because he gets to control the music playlist.
- 2Preference for the front seat
She insisted on riding shotgun because she gets carsick in the backseat.
He always volunteers to ride shotgun because he enjoys the feeling of being in control.
- 3Being the co-pilot
I enjoy riding shotgun because I can help with navigation and keep the driver company.
She was excited to ride shotgun on the road trip and be the DJ for the journey.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "riding shotgun" originated in the United States during the Wild West era. It refers to the person who sat next to the stagecoach driver and carried a shotgun for protection against potential threats.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The phrase "riding shotgun" is typically used within a sentence to describe the act of sitting in the front passenger seat. It is not commonly used on its own.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "riding shotgun" is not offensive. It is a common slang term used to describe sitting in the front passenger seat of a vehicle.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "riding shotgun" is commonly used by English speakers, particularly in the United States. It is understood by people of various age groups and backgrounds, especially those who are familiar with driving and car culture.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The phrase "riding shotgun" is primarily used in the United States, but it is also understood in other English-speaking regions. It has gained popularity through movies, music, and everyday conversations about transportation.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- ride in the front
- sit in the passenger seat
- occupy the front seat
- take the front spot
- be the co-pilot
Antonyms
- sit in the back
- be in the rear
- take the backseat
- be a backseat passenger
- be in the second row
