How Do You Spell BUMP ALONG?

Pronunciation: [bˈʌmp ɐlˈɒŋ] (IPA)

Bump along is a phrasal verb that means to move unevenly or awkwardly. Its pronunciation is bʌmp əˈlɔŋ, with the stressed syllable being "bump" and the secondary stress falling on "long." The "bump" sound is represented by the IPA symbol [bʌmp], which is a voiced bilabial plosive. The "along" sound is represented by the IPA symbol [əˈlɔŋ], which indicates that the vowel is a schwa, followed by a long "o" sound, and then a velar nasal sound represented by the symbol [ŋ].

BUMP ALONG Meaning and Definition

1. Bump along is a phrasal verb that denotes the act of moving or progressing in a bumpy or uneven manner. It implies a rough or uncomfortable journey and is often used figuratively to describe the way something or someone advances slowly or with difficulty.

   In a literal sense, to bump along refers to the movement of a vehicle or object over an uneven surface, such as a rough road or a rocky terrain. It suggests a lack of smoothness and a series of jolts or bumps experienced during the journey. This term is frequently used when traveling in a vehicle that is not equipped with proper suspension or control, resulting in a bumpy ride.

   Figuratively, bumping along implies slow or unstable progress in different areas of life. It can describe the slow growth or development of a project, organization, or individual. For example, a business that is experiencing difficulties and cannot achieve its desired goals might be said to be bumping along. Similarly, a person going through a challenging period may be described as bumping along in life.

   Overall, bump along signifies a slow and unsteady progress, often characterized by difficulties and obstacles. This term can be used both literally to describe physical movement and figuratively to describe the slow advancement or development of various aspects of life.

Common Misspellings for BUMP ALONG

• vump along
• nump along
• hump along
• gump along
• bymp along
• bhmp along
• bjmp along
• bimp along
• b8mp along
• b7mp along
• bunp along
• bukp along
• bujp along
• bumo along
• buml along
• bum- along
• bum0 along
• bump zlong
• bump slong
• bump wlong

Etymology of BUMP ALONG

The phrase "bump along" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two common words. "Bump" is derived from the Middle English word "bumpen", which means "to strike heavily" or "to thump". It is thought to be onomatopoeic, imitating the sound of a sudden collision.

The word "along" has Old English origins and is derived from "gelang", meaning "by the side of" or "next to". It has since evolved in meaning to indicate movement in a continuous direction.

When combined, "bump along" refers to the action of moving forward by experiencing minor jolts or irregularities along the way.

Idioms with the word BUMP ALONG

• bump along To progress slowly or with difficulty, often in a clumsy or awkward manner.
• bump along the bottom The idiom "bump along the bottom" refers to an individual or a situation being in a state of minimal success or progress, typically struggling or barely getting by. It can also imply a lack of stability or forward movement in one's personal or professional life.