Pronunciation: [tˈaɡɪŋ ɐlˈɒŋ] (IPA) 
The common phrase "tagging along" is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription of /tæɡɪŋ əˈlɔŋ/. It is a verb phrase that means to follow someone or something, usually in a casual or unobtrusive way. The spelling of "tagging" comes from the past participle of the verb "tag," meaning to attach or label. The word "along" is spelled just as it sounds, with the "a" pronounced as in "cat" and the emphasis on the second syllable.
Tagging along is a phrase that typically refers to the act of accompanying someone in an informal or unplanned manner. It describes the action of joining someone without being specifically invited or included in their plans. When someone tags along, they essentially follow or go along with another person or group, participating in their activities or journey.
The term often implies a certain sense of informality or casualness, indicating that the person joining is not an integral part of the original plan or event. Thus, they are not considered a primary participant, but rather an additional companion who has chosen to join for various reasons.
Tagging along can occur in various social contexts, such as friends spontaneously deciding to attend a particular event or outing together. It may also happen when someone joins a group excursion or trip without being part of the original arrangement. In such cases, the person may join simply for the sake of company, curiosity, or to experience something new.
Overall, tagging along suggests a degree of flexibility and adaptability, as the person joining must be ready to integrate with pre-existing plans or adapt to the pace and activities of the group they are accompanying.
The phrase tagging along is derived from the word tag, which originally referred to a small strip of material used for identification or marking something. The verb tag means to attach or label an object, often for identification purposes.
In the context of tagging along, it is used metaphorically to describe the act of following or joining someone or a group without being the primary focus. It implies accompanying or participating in an activity, journey, or social gathering. The word along simply emphasizes the accompanying aspect.
The origin of tag itself can be traced back to the medieval English word tagge, meaning a hanging strip or end of a braid. Over time, it evolved to encompass various meanings related to labeling or marking, eventually leading to the metaphorical use in the phrase tagging along.
