streak along

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "streak along" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something moving quickly or smoothly along a surface or path. Example: "The comet streaked along the night sky, leaving a brilliant trail behind it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

That inexplicable hot streak — along with the playoff-leading goalkeeping of Jaroslav Halak and the strong work of the defensemen who keep the front of Halak's net clear, Hal Gill, Josh Gorges and the rookie P. K. Subban — has transformed the Canadiens overnight.

The New York Times - Sports

The plots streak along at breakneck speed.

The New York Times

Dragonflies streak along the surface and cicadas compete with the din of the high, tumbling waterfall.

The Guardian - Travel

France's vaunted TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) streamliners streak along at 180 miles an hour or more.

The New York Times

The Huskies (36-2) had won 114 of their previous 115 games, setting a record 90-game winning streak along the way.

The New York Times - Sports

While their married life can seem to be a study in contrasts, they share a tenacious streak along with a willingness to take risks.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

It was streaking along".

The Guardian - Travel

Purple bruises circled his eyes and streaked along his cheekbones.

The New York Times

No big deal is made of this, though; the joke is dropped and "Monsters" streaks along.

The New York Times

Hunter reached the foul line and passed to Stackhouse, who was streaking along the left side.

The New York Times - Sports

Catch the light right and you see bands of colour streaked along the surface, rich reds and purples.

The Guardian - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "streak along" to vividly describe movement that is both rapid and linear, creating a strong visual image for the reader. For example: "The meteor streaked along the horizon, leaving a fiery trail."

Common error

Avoid using "streak along" to describe situations that are not actively in motion. Saying "a streak of color along the wall" might be better phrased as "a stripe of color" unless the color appears to be actively moving or extending.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "streak along" is a phrasal verb used to describe movement. According to Ludwig, this phrasal verb signifies a swift, linear progression, often creating a visual impression of speed.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

10%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "streak along" effectively conveys the idea of rapid and linear movement. Ludwig confirms that it is grammatically sound and most commonly appears in News & Media and Scientific contexts, and its register is generally neutral. While acceptable across different writing styles, consider the context to prevent misapplication in situations lacking dynamic motion. Alternative phrases such as "race along" or "speed along" can offer similar meanings with slightly different connotations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

race along

Emphasizes speed and competition, suggesting a quicker pace compared to a steady movement implied by the original phrase.

speed along

Directly focuses on high velocity, highlighting the fast nature of the movement.

flash by

Implies a very rapid passing, suggesting the object is seen only momentarily.

whiz past

Similar to flash by, but may also imply a sound associated with the rapid movement.

sail along

Suggests a smooth, effortless movement, often used in the context of vehicles or objects in water or air.

glide along

Similar to sail along, but more about a continuous and smooth motion with little resistance.

sweep along

Suggests a broad, continuous movement, often affecting everything in its path.

surge forward

Implies a powerful, sudden increase in speed and movement.

continue rapidly

A more descriptive phrase, less idiomatic than "streak along", emphasizing the sustained pace.

move swiftly

General term for quick movement, lacking the specific imagery of a streak.

FAQs

How can I use "streak along" in a sentence?

Use "streak along" to describe something moving quickly and linearly. For example, "The race car "streaked along" the track" or "Tears "streaked along" her face".

What does "streak along" mean?

"Streak along" means to move rapidly and in a straight line, often leaving a trail or impression of speed. It suggests a swift and continuous motion.

What are some synonyms for "streak along"?

Alternatives to "streak along" include "race along", "speed along", or "flash by". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "streak along" formal or informal?

"Streak along" is generally considered a neutral expression suitable for both informal and news reporting. However, avoid it in highly formal or academic writing where more precise language might be preferred.