Meaning & Origin

The expression go with the flow gained popularity in the 1960s–70s, echoing the counter‑culture’s emphasis on flexibility and harmony. It likens life to a river: instead of fighting the current, you drift with it, conserving energy and discovering where it leads.

Pronunciation Guide

Say it smoothly as GO with the FLOW: /goʊ wɪθ ðə floʊ/. Stress GO and FLOW, keep the long “o” sound in both words.

Usage & Sentence Examples

• The itinerary keeps changing—let’s go with the flow.
• In negotiations, she listens first and goes with the flow before making demands.
• Sometimes kids teach us to go with the flow and enjoy the moment.

Synonyms

• roll with it
• take it as it comes
• adapt
• ride the wave
• follow along