go along with: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘go along with’ mean?

The idiom "go along with" means to agree or accept something, often reluctantly or without enthusiasm.

Idiom Explorer

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The idiomatic expression "go along with" is frequently used in the English language and has several meanings in different contexts. One of the primary meanings of "go along with" is to agree or comply with someone or something. It indicates a willingness to support a particular course of action. For example, if a group of friends suggests going to a specific restaurant for dinner and you agree to their choice, you can say, "I'm happy to go along with your plan." In this situation, the phrase signifies a willingness to put aside personal preferences and follow the majority's decision.

The idiom can also describe the act of tolerating or accepting certain circumstances or decisions. When you find yourself in a situation where you have no control over the outcome or conditions, you might say, "I just had to go along with it." This conveys a sense of resignation or the necessity to accept something even if you don't fully agree with or prefer it.

In addition, "go along with" can convey the idea of providing support or assistance to someone. For instance, if a friend is organizing an event and asks for your help, you can say, "I'm happy to go along with your plans." In this case, the phrase implies that you are willing to lend a hand and support your friend's efforts.

Go with the flow and conform to societal norms.

The idiomatic expression "go along to get along" is closely related to "go along with." Unlike "go along with," which generally denotes agreement or compliance, "go along to get along" has a deeper meaning. It suggests that in certain situations, it may be necessary to conform or adapt to the prevailing norms or customs in order to maintain peace or avoid conflict. This idiom conveys the importance of harmony and avoiding friction in social or professional interactions.

Similarly, the idiom "go with" is also connected to "go along with." However, "go with" is more focused on compatibility or making choices based on personal preferences. For example, if someone asks you which shoes to wear with a particular outfit, you might respond, "I think the red heels go with the dress." In this instance, "go with" expresses the idea of selecting something that matches or complements another item.

The idiom "go along with" has its roots in the individual words that compose it. "Go" refers to the act of moving or proceeding, while "along" conveys the idea of going in the same direction or agreeing with something. Combining these words, "go along with" reflects the concept of moving or agreeing with someone or something.

"go along with" is a versatile idiom that encompasses various notions such as agreement, compliance, acceptance, and support. It has become deeply rooted in the English language as a means of expressing a willingness to follow or accept a particular course of action. Whether used in social settings or everyday conversations, "go along with" continues to be a commonly utilized idiom that captures the complexities of human interaction.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "go along with" can be used in a sentence:

  • She decided to go along with her friend's plan for the evening.
  • The manager went along with his employee's suggestion and implemented the changes.
  • Despite his reservations, he went along with the decision made by the group.

More "Cooperate" idioms

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