(just) along for the ride
Attending some event or participating in some activity without playing an active or central role in the proceedings. John's receiving an award for his work overseas tonight, and I'm just along for the ride. I'm going along for the ride to my friends' book club meeting later to see if I want to become a member. Oh, I have no interest in playing basketball with you guys, I'm just along for the ride. Consider me your cheerleader!
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
along for the ride
Participating but not actively, as in Don't ask me how long this job will take; I'm just along for the ride. This metaphoric term often is preceded by just to emphasize the passive role of the "passenger." [Mid-1900s]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
along for the ride, to go/to come/just
To take part but passively. The phrase, originating in the United States in the mid-twentieth century, implies some of the acquiescence of go along with but makes it clear that one is not in the driver’s seat.
The Dictionary of Clichés by Christine Ammer Copyright © 2013 by Christine Ammer