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.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
free ride
1. Lit. a ride to somewhere for which no payment is demanded. I got a free ride from a truck driver who was headed for town. I won't call a taxi when I can get a free ride.
2. Fig. an easy time; participation without contributing anything. You've had a free ride long enough. You have to do your share of the work now. No more free rides around here. Get off your duff and get a job!
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
a free ride
INFORMALCOMMON 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.
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012
free ride
n. an easy time; participation without contributing anything. You’ve had a free ride long enough. You have to do your share of the work now.
McGraw-Hill's Dictionary of American Slang and Colloquial Expressions Copyright © 2006 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. All rights reserved.