The phrase "swimming with tide" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /ˈswɪmɪŋ wɪð taɪd/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound, followed by the "ng" consonant blend. The second syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound and the "w" consonant sound. The third syllable starts with a voiced dental fricative "ð" sound followed by the long "a" sound and the "d" consonant sound. The phrase refers to swimming in the same direction as the current, making it easier to navigate the waters.
The expression "swimming with the tide" refers to the act of adhering to or going along with the prevailing opinion, trend, or popular choice, rather than going against it. This idiom is derived from the imagery of swimming in the same direction as the current or tide, which requires less effort and resistance compared to swimming against it.
Metaphorically, when someone is "swimming with the tide," they are aligning themselves with the majority and conforming to the prevailing thoughts, beliefs, or actions of a group or society. This can be seen as a strategic approach to avoid opposition or conflict, as well as a means to fit in and be accepted.
Swimming with the tide often implies a lack of critical thinking or originality, as it involves going with the flow rather than challenging or questioning popular opinion. It may also suggest a certain level of opportunism or conformity to gain social approval or benefit from the advantages associated with being part of the majority.
While swimming with the tide can sometimes be seen as a cautious or practical tactic to maintain harmony in social settings, it can also have negative connotations. Critics may argue that blindly following the majority can perpetuate conformity, stifle independent thought, and impede progress or change. Ultimately, the act of swimming with the tide can be viewed differently depending on the context and individual perspectives.