along
prep. · adv.-
1 next to the length of (prep.) A2 Elementaryin a line next to something long, like a road, a river, or a wall.
positioned or moving in a constant direction by the side of a linear object.
ExampleWe took a relaxing walk along the beach as the sun went down.
ExampleThe cyclists pedalled steadily along the narrow coastal path, keeping the cliffs to their left and the open sea to their right.
UsageUsually followed by a noun phrase representing a linear space like a path, road, or border.
- beside
- parallel to
PitfallWe walked along the street to cross it.We walked across the street.Use 'along' for moving beside or down the length of something; use 'across' for moving from one side to the other.
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2 moving forward (adv.) B1 Intermediatemoving forward or further in a process.
moving in a forward direction or making progress toward a destination or goal.
ExampleThe project is moving along nicely and should be finished by Friday.
ExampleTraffic was barely moving along due to the heavy rain and the construction work on the main bridge.
UsageOften follows verbs of motion or progress like 'move', 'come', or 'get'.
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3 in company with (adv.) A2 Elementarytogether with someone else or brought with you.
in the company of others or as an accompaniment to a person or group.
ExampleI'm going to the cinema tonight; why don't you come along?
ExampleShe brought her younger brother along to the party, hoping he would make some new friends in the neighbourhood.
UsageFrequently used in phrasal constructions like 'bring along', 'come along', or 'take along'.
Etymology tree Proto-Indo-European *h₂ent- Proto-Indo-European *-s Proto-Indo-European *h₂éntsder. Proto-Germanic *anda- Proto-West Germanic *anda- Old English and- Proto-Indo-European *dlongʰos Proto-Germanic *langaz Proto-West Germanic *lang Old English lang Old English andlang Middle English English along From Middle English, from Old English andlang, from prefix and- + lang (“long”). Doublet of endlong.