"Follows the crowd" is spelled phonetically as /ˈfɒləʊz ðə kraʊd/. The first syllable is pronounced as "fol" with a short "o" sound. The second syllable is pronounced as "lows" with a long "o" sound. The word "the" is pronounced as "ðə" with a voiced "th" sound. Finally, the word "crowd" is pronounced as "kraʊd" with a dipthong of "ou" and a hard "d" sound. This phrase means to go along with the majority, often without critical thinking or decision-making.
"Follows the crowd" is an idiomatic expression used to describe an individual who chooses to conform to the behavior, opinions, or actions of a larger group or majority rather than thinking independently or making individual decisions. This phrase implies that the person lacks individuality, critical thinking, or the courage to express their own beliefs or ideas, instead opting to adopt the popular or accepted viewpoint.
When someone "follows the crowd," they tend to make choices or decisions purely based on the pressure to fit in or the fear of being perceived as different. This behavior often stems from a desire for social acceptance or a need to avoid standing out or facing potential criticism or ostracization.
Following the crowd can be seen in various contexts, such as social situations, fashion trends, political movements, or even consumer choices. This behavior can be both positive and negative, depending on the situation. While it can help forge a sense of unity or solidarity among individuals with similar interests or goals, it can also lead to the suppression of diverse perspectives and hinder personal growth and critical thinking. Following the crowd may prevent an individual from challenging the status quo, questioning popular beliefs, or discovering alternative perspectives.
In essence, someone who "follows the crowd" tends to prioritize conformity over individuality, often sacrificing their own beliefs or preferences in favor of aligning with the majority opinion or behavior.