following - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
following Word Meanings
- to go after someone or something; chase or tail
- to come after in time or order; occur next
- to adhere to or act according to rules, instructions, or a plan
following Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
following Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈfɒ.ləʊ.ɪŋ/
US
/ˈfɑ.loʊ.ɪŋ/
following Word Etymology
(a) Root decomposition: root follow + suffix -ing forms following; (b) Historical origin: from Old English folgian 'to follow', related to Proto-Germanic *folgijaną; cognates Dutch volgen, German folgen; (c) Memory image: imagine a faithful shadow always at your heels as you move.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Following is a versatile verb that covers three core ideas. First, to go after someone or something, as in chasing or tailing a suspect; second, to come after in time or order, so events that occur following a meeting; third, to adhere to or act according to rules, instructions, or a plan. The form follows the root follow plus the -ing suffix, with Old English folgian and Proto-Germanic *folgijaną; cognates appear in Dutch volgen and German folgen. In everyday use you’ll say 'The dog is following the car' for chase; 'What comes following this chapter?' for sequence; and 'You must follow the instructions' for compliance. A memory image is a faithful shadow at your heels as you move.
Usage Reminders
- Follow has three main senses: chase, sequence, and compliance.
- Use follow with rules: follow the instructions or follow the plan.
- For time order, you can say what comes after or what follows this chapter.
- The noun 'the following' introduces a list.
- Be careful not to mix chase with follow when you mean simply observe or comply.
Common Misconceptions
- Thinking following always means chasing someone or something physically.
- Believing the word always refers to future events.
- Using follow as a synonym for obey in all rule contexts.
- Mistaking 'the following' as a future tense marker rather than a noun for listed items.
- Confusing follow with 'follow after' in every scenario.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, the idea of follow links all three senses under one verb, so you must memorize distinct collocations (follow the rules, follow the course, follow someone) and understand how context shifts meaning. Learners often overgeneralize chase or underuse obey-like phrases with rules.
Learning Tips
- Create three columns for chase, sequence, and compliance examples.
- Learn key collocations: follow the rules, follow the plan, follow someone.
- Use a memory cue: a shadow at your heels when you move.
- Practice distinguishing time order phrases: what comes after, what follows.
- Listen to native speech and note which sense is used.
- Write short, varied sentences to solidify each meaning.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'following'?
A.Coming before
B.Coming after
C.Taking action
D.Being present
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence below uses the word 'following' correctly?
A.He was following the rules of the game.
B.She ate her dinner before her dessert.
C.The cat was following the mouse closely.
D.The following of rain resulted in a flood.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'following'?
A.Praising
B.Pausing
C.Leading
D.Denying
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'following'?
A.Forgetting
B.Ignoring
C.Preceding
D.Avoiding
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context for the word 'following'?
A.They were all going in the same direction.
B.He was driving to catch up with the car in front.
C.The group was walking side by side.
D.She walked behind her friends.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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