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'Along' is both a preposition and an adverb. In this lesson, we will discuss how to learn and use it.
Functions of 'Along'
'Along' as a Preposition
One of the functions of 'along' is to be a preposition. Below, we are going to learn all about it:
Use
'Along' as a Preposition of Movement and Direction
'Along' is a preposition of movement and direction. Below, we are going to see its different meanings:
When we want to indicate movement from one place to another, we use 'along':
I loved to sit by the window and loo at the river along the road.
I was so absentminded that I didn't know for how long I had been walking along the Tames River.
When we want to show a line beside something, we use 'along':
There are different groups of people living along the forest.
It was written in the brochure that we'd be walking along the river.
'Along' as a Preposition of Place
We can also use 'along' as a preposition of place to show a particular place or indicate that something is next to something else. Look at the following examples for more clarification:
Hannah ran outside and found the ice cream vendor along the supermarket.
Where can I find a drug store nearby?
Just head straight. It's along the corridor.
Position in a Sentence
Since 'along' is a preposition here, it mainly comes before nouns or noun phrases. We can have a prepositional phrase at the beginning, in the middle, or at the end of the sentences. Look at the following examples for more clarification:
Do we have to drive along that road again?
Marianna started running along the beach.
'Along' as an Adverb
As stated above, 'along' can also be an adverb. Below, we are going to learn all about it:
Use
'Along' as an Adverb of Movement and Direction
'Along' as an adverb of movement and direction can also show movement which makes it an adverb of movement and direction. Let us check out the list below:
When we want to indicate movement forward, we use 'along':
She hurried along.
Cursing him silently, Harriet walked along.
When we join someone to go to a particular place, we use 'along':
Harry came along and the three of us, together, defeated the Dark Lord.
Anna, I'm going outside to air my thoughts a bit. Are u coming along?
Yes, I'll be along in a minute.
When we want to show movement to a better position or condition. Note that 'movement' in metaphorical not in a literal sense:
This movie is coming along beautifully.
Position in a Sentence
Since 'along' is an adverb here, it mainly modifies adjectives, adverbs, and verbs. So, we put it after them. Look at the following examples:
Come along with us, won't you?
She was so lost in her thoughts that she didn't notice the book shop as she rambled along.
Idioms and Expressions with 'Along'
We have several idioms and expressions with 'along' in the English language. Below, we are going to learn all about them:
All along: When we want to indicate that something was in a certain state from the beginning:
So, you had been lying to me all along.
This guitar was here all along and we hadn't realized it.
Along the way: When we want to indicate that something happened during some time:
It was tough, but I learnt many life lessons along the way.
The girl cried while driving along the way.
Along the same lines: When we want to show the similarity:
My parents are both doctors, though in different sections. So, their professions are along the same lines.
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