What are the definitions of “coast along”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Do something without making much effort or trying to improve.
She's been COASTING ALONG all year and hasn't made a lot of progress.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “coast along”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb coast along is to do something without making much effort or trying to improve. It often implies that someone is not putting in their full effort or is just doing the minimum required to get by.
What are the different verb forms of “coast along”?
| Root Verb | coast along |
| Third Person Singular Present | coasts along |
| Present Participle | coasting along |
| Simple Past | coasted along |
| Past Participle | coasted along |
Example
He tends to coast along in his job, doing just enough to avoid getting fired.
Example
She coasts along in her studies, never really pushing herself to excel.
Example
They are coasting along in their relationship, not really working on improving it.
Example
He coasted along through high school, never really applying himself.
Example
She had coasted along in her previous job, but her new boss expects more effort.
What kind of phrasal verb is “coast along”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“coast along” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
He coasted along in his job, never really trying to improve.
Example
She coasted along through college, just doing the minimum required.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“coast along” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
He coasted along in his job, never really trying to improve.
Example
She coasted along through college, just doing the minimum required.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “coast along”?
Not putting in effort to improve or maintain a relationship, often leading to stagnation or decline.
Example
They've been coasting along in their relationship, not addressing any issues or working on their communication.
Good things to know
Does “coast along” have an informal or formal tone?
Coast along is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as work or academic discussions.
