a free ride

free ride

An advantage or special treatment that a person receives without earning it or paying for it. Even though his grades were poor, Gary thought he should get a free ride to college because he was a football star. You're getting a free ride living with your parents. You don't even have to pay rent! Thank goodness I got a fellowship—and a free ride—for grad school! That's the only reason my student loan debt isn't worse.
See also: free, ride
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

a free ride

INFORMAL
COMMON If someone gets a free ride in a particular situation, they get a benefit without working or paying for it. I never wanted anyone to think I was getting a free ride or special treatment from the boss. I certainly wasn't just sitting around, getting a free ride. Note: This expression is used to show disapproval.
See also: free, ride
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012
See also:
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