How Do You Spell TAGS ALONG?
Pronunciation: [tˈaɡz ɐlˈɒŋ] (IPA) 
Pronunciation: [tˈaɡz ɐlˈɒŋ] (IPA)
Tags along is an idiomatic expression that refers to the act of accompanying someone or joining in an activity, event, or journey without having been specifically invited or planned to do so. When a person tags along, they join a group or individual without any prior arrangement or invitation, often just out of curiosity, interest, or a desire to be included.
This term is commonly used in informal and casual settings, such as friends or acquaintances spontaneously deciding to go somewhere and someone else deciding to tag along. It implies a sense of informality, as the person joining in does so without being part of the original plan. In a similar context, it can also refer to someone attaching themselves to a more popular or influential individual, often seeking benefits, attention, or connections that they would otherwise not have access to.
The phrase "tags along" can also be used metaphorically, describing situations where an idea, theme, or concept follows or accompanies another one without being the main focus. In this sense, the secondary idea or theme is not as prominent but still provides some additional information or dimension to the primary subject.
Overall, "tags along" implies the act of joining others uninvited or participating in an activity without being an integral part of the original plan or group, either in a physical sense or a metaphorical one.
The phrase "tags along" originated from two separate words: "tags" and "along". Each word has its own etymology.
1. "Tags": The word "tags" in this context comes from the noun form of the verb "tag". "Tag" as a verb means to follow closely or to go along with someone or something. The etymology of "tag" can be traced back to the Middle English word "taggen" which means "to attach". This Middle English word is derived from Old Norse "ta(b)ba", which means "to fasten".
2. "Along": The word "along" is an adverb that signifies moving in a particular direction or accompanying someone or something. It originated from Middle English "alonge" which was formed by combining "a-" (meaning "on") and "longe" (meaning "a long way").
