What is following? Pronunciation and usage in English

following means . Learn how to pronounce and use following through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of following

followingpreposition

/ˈfɒləʊɪŋ/
Definition & pronunciation of following

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "following." It's a tricky one for many learners! Here's a detailed breakdown:

1. The General Sound:

  • The word has a slightly elongated vowel sound, which is key. It's not just a simple "oh" sound.

2. Syllable Breakdown:

  • fol - low - ing – Think of it as three distinct syllables.

3. Pronunciation Step-by-Step:

  • "fol": This part sounds like "full" but with a shorter, quicker "u" sound. It's almost like "fol" as in "golf." (Think: fawl)
  • "low": This is a short, quick "oh" sound, like in "low" or "go". (Think: low)
  • "ing": This is the tricky part! The "i" sound is held slightly longer than a normal "ing." It’s a long “ee” sound, but not as drawn out as “see.” It needs to be consistent throughout the whole word. (Think: ing as in "sing")

4. Putting it Together - The Whole Word:

  • fol-LOW-ing (emphasize the "low")

5. Tips & Common Mistakes:

  • Don't say "follow-ing." The "low" syllable needs to be distinct and pronounced clearly.
  • Avoid diphthongs: Don’t say it like "fol-oo-ing" – the ‘o’ sound needs to be quick and distinct.
  • Listen to native speakers: This is the best way to learn. Search for “how to pronounce following” on YouTube or use online dictionaries (like Merriam-Webster or Cambridge) that have audio pronunciation.

Resources for Listening:

To help me tailor the explanation even further, could you tell me:

  • Are you a beginner English learner, or do you have some experience?

Usage and examples with the word following in English

Let's break down how to use the word "following" in English. It's a versatile word with several different meanings and grammatical functions. Here's a comprehensive guide:

1. As an Adjective (Describing Order & Sequence)

  • Meaning: This is the most common use. It means "coming after" or "subsequent." It indicates that something happens or is arranged in a particular order.
  • Examples:
    • "The following instructions are crucial for assembling the product." (Describes the next thing to do.)
    • "I read the first three chapters, and now I'm following with the rest of the book." (Describes the progression of reading.)
    • "The following events led to a significant change in policy." (Describes what happened next.)
    • "She wore a following of ribbons in her hair." (Describes the ribbons that came after her hair.)

2. As a Gerund (Noun Form of a Verb – "To Follow")

  • Meaning: When used as a gerund, "following" describes the act of following someone or something.
  • Examples:
    • "I'm following her to see where she's going." (Describes the action of trailing.)
    • "The police are following a lead in the investigation." (Describes the investigation process.)
    • "There's a strict rule against following the leader." (Describes the act of imitating someone.)

3. As a Verb (To Pursue, To Continue)

  • Meaning: This is a more active use. It means to pursue someone or something, or to continue doing something after a previous action.
  • Examples:
    • "I will follow you to make sure you're safe." (To pursue.)
    • "Please follow the directions carefully." (To continue doing something.)
    • "Let's follow up on this conversation later." (To continue the discussion.)
    • "The company is following a new marketing strategy." (Continuing a process.)

4. In Phrases and Idioms

  • Following the lead of... – Copying or imitating someone. "She was following the lead of her successful older sister."
  • Following order – A system of rules or procedures. "The military operates under a strict following order."
  • Following the rules – Adhering to regulations. "You must follow the rules of the game.”
  • Following suit – Doing the same thing as someone else. "If he complimented my shirt, I would follow suit."

5. "Following" in Sentences (Examples Combining Different Uses)

  • "Following the instructions carefully is essential for a successful outcome." (Adjective – describing the instructions)
  • "I'm following her, hoping to get a better look at the building." (Gerund – describing the action)
  • "The journalist is following up on a story about corruption." (Verb – continuing the process)
  • "Following the recent rains, the river is overflowing." (Adjective – describing the event that happened afterward)

Key Differences to Remember:

  • "Following" as an adjective describes position in a sequence.
  • "Following" as a gerund describes the action of following.
  • "Follow" as a verb describes the act of pursuing or continuing.

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you trying to use "following" in? (e.g., writing a formal email, speaking casually, a specific subject like business or law?)

Synonyms for the word following

Idioms of the word following

a following wind
(figurative)a wind blowing in the same direction as a ship or other vehicle that helps it move faster
  • With a generous following wind, we sped across the lake.
  • With a bit of luck and a following wind, the project will be completed on schedule.

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