ENGLISH
REFERENCE

coast along

phr. v..
C1 Advanced Oxford

phr. v.. to do something with very little effort because you are talented or because things are currently easy for you.

phr. v.. to make progress or succeed without exerting significant effort, often due to past momentum or natural ability; frequently carries a negative connotation of complacency.


SIMPLE

He is just coasting along until he retires next year.

CONTEXTUAL

After getting an early lead in the project, the team started to coast along instead of finishing strong.

COMPLEX

The company cannot afford to coast along on its previous reputation while competitors are innovating at such a rapid pace.

Particles
along
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
coast + along
Usage

often used to describe students, employees, or athletes who are not working to their full potential.

Teaching tip

connect this to the literal meaning of a car or bike moving without the engine or pedals; it helps students visualize the lack of active effort.

Pitfall

She is coasting along her exams.She is coasting through her exams.while 'coast along' describes a general state of low effort, 'coast through' is used when mentioning a specific challenge or task.

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