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Meaning trap

come along

go somewhere with someone

to go somewhere with someone, often when they invite you or as part of a group.

phrasal verbB1common

Don't mix these meanings

Same phrase, different job.

go somewhere with someone

to go somewhere with someone, often when they invite you or as part of a group.

come along (make progress)

Another meaning of 'come along' is 'make progress'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.

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Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • We're going to the park later—do you want to come along?daily life
  • If I have to attend a social event, I usually ask a friend to come along so I don't feel awkward.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: come along (with someone)

WrongDo you want to come along with to the cinema?

RightDo you want to come along to the cinema? / ...come along with us?

'Come along' alone, or 'come along WITH us' — don't leave 'with' dangling.

Patterncome along (with someone)

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff You are welcome to accompany us if you wish to do so.

Natural You're welcome to come along if you fancy it.

'Come along' is the friendly everyday verb for joining; 'accompany us' is formal.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • come along (to)
    with usto the partytooif you like

Don't confuse it

'Come along' is about joining someone, while 'come on' is usually used to encourage or urge.

Try it in Daily Speak →