The phrase "be carried along" refers to the act of being influenced, persuaded, or moved along by something or someone. It commonly implies a sense of being swept away or carried away by external forces, ideas, trends, or emotions without actively resisting or questioning them. This phrase can be both used literally and figuratively.
In a literal sense, "be carried along" refers to physically being transported or moved by a current, wind, or vehicle. For example, a person swimming in a fast-flowing river may find themselves being carried along by the water's force, making it difficult to swim against it.
Figuratively, "be carried along" denotes being caught up in a situation or idea without critically examining it. This can occur in various contexts such as social trends, group dynamics, or political movements. People might find themselves adopting certain beliefs, opinions, or behaviors without fully understanding or considering their implications.
The phrase also implies a lack of agency or control over one's own actions or decisions. It suggests a passive state where an individual allows themselves to be guided or directed by external factors, often without actively participating in the decision-making process. Thus, being carried along may lead to conformity, as individuals may simply follow the crowd rather than critically thinking for themselves.
Overall, "be carried along" conveys the notion of being propelled or driven by external forces, whether physical or abstract, while implying a reduced sense of autonomy or independent thinking.
