free ride

English

Noun

free ride (plural free rides)

1. (idiomatic) An opportunity or benefit which has no cost, especially one enjoyed or undertaken at the expense of others.
   • 1980, "FITML," Time, 31 March.

     Previously, shoppers were given a free ride on charges until the end of the month. Now interest will start on the day of purchase on accounts with balances.

   • 2006, "A Yankees Station in the Bronx," New York Times, 9 Apr. (retrieved 11 June 2009):

     Financially, the two New York teams have not asked for the sort of free ride at taxpayer expense that has been commonplace elsewhere.

Derived terms

• free rider