# go with the flow of traffic

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/go-with-the-flow-of-traffic
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To drive a vehicle at approximately the speed of other vehicles on the road, irrespective of the speed limit.

## Examples

- It is safer to go with the flow of traffic.
- The highway speed limit is low, but most drivers go with the flow of traffic to avoid accidents.
- Although the posted limit was strictly enforced, the experienced driver chose to go with the flow of traffic to maintain a consistent speed among the other vehicles.

## Origin

The term employs flow in the sense of the direction of movement. Beyond this specific application of the noun, the source records no further historical narrative or dates of origin.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.