The phrase "hopping along" is spelled in accordance with the rules of English phonetics. The word "hopping" is pronounced as [ˈha.pɪŋ], with the stress on the first syllable. The "h" is pronounced as an unvoiced fricative, while the "p" is aspirated. The vowel in the first syllable is pronounced as an open, unrounded [a], while the second syllable has a short i sound [ɪ]. The word "along" is pronounced as [əˈlɒŋ], with a schwa vowel in the first syllable and a long o sound [ɒ] in the second.
Hopping along is an idiomatic expression that generally refers to the action of moving or progressing in a somewhat irregular or discontinuous manner. It is commonly used to describe the movement of a person or animal who is moving by hopping, typically on one foot only or with a series of short, quick jumps.
In a literal sense, hopping along may depict the action of hopping or bounding along a path or surface. For instance, a person with an injured leg may be seen hopping along on crutches, or a kangaroo can be seen hopping along through a field.
Figuratively, hopping along can also carry the connotation of proceeding in a sporadic, disjointed, or inconsistent manner. For instance, it can describe someone progressing slowly or with difficulty in their work or plans, as if they are moving forward in small, disjointed steps. It can also be used to depict a person going from place to place, job to job, or hobby to hobby without any clear direction or purpose.
In essence, hopping along captures the notion of moving or advancing with some irregularity, whether it be physically or metaphorically. It implies a lack of smoothness or uninterrupted progress, often characterized by intermittent or fragmented movements.