English Reference
noun · verb

coast

n. · v.
US /ˈkoʊst/ UK /kˈəʊst/ coast UK spelling coasted, coasting, coasts

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    n.the land next to or near the sea.

    n.the part of the land adjoining or near the ocean.

    Simple

    We took a long walk along the coast to watch the waves.

    In context

    The rugged coast of Maine is famous for its granite cliffs and historic lighthouses that have guided sailors for centuries.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to move along easily without using any power or effort.

    v.to move by momentum or gravity without the use of an engine or active propulsion.

    Simple

    The cyclist stopped pedalling and let the bike coast down the hill.

    In context

    After the engine failed, the pilot managed to coast the glider toward a flat field for an emergency landing.

    Usage

    The verb is intransitive and describes movement resulting from previous force.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Informal

    v.to do something with very little effort because it is easy for you.

    v.to proceed through a task or period of time with minimal effort, often relying on past successes.

    Simple

    He is so smart that he can coast through his exams without studying.

    In context

    Having secured a comfortable lead in the first half, the team appeared to coast through the remainder of the match.

  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate American EnglishDialect

    v.to slide down a snowy hill on a sled.

    v.to slide down a slope on a sled or toboggan.

    Simple

    The children spent the whole afternoon coasting down the snowy hill behind the house.

    In context

    Local families gathered at the park's steepest ridge to go coasting after the first heavy snowfall of the season.

    sledtoboggan

Usage coast guard

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Very common
Updated