follow carefully

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "follow carefully" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when giving instructions or guidance, emphasizing the need for attention to detail. Example: "Please follow carefully the steps outlined in the manual to ensure proper assembly of the product."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

"It's something that we follow carefully," he added.

The New York Times

"It's something that we follow carefully, and that's about as far as I go".

The New York Times

Doctors follow carefully documented procedures instead of relying solely on their instincts, as Indian doctors tended to.

The Economist

To reduce the risk of unpleasant side effects, it is important to follow carefully the instructions provided on how to use the drops.

The New York Times - Science

Before connected trackers, animals such as elephant seals were almost impossible to follow carefully – they dive to depths of 2,000m and traverse the globe from Arctic to Antarctic.

The Guardian - Tech

This game was originally scheduled to be played in Kharkiv but had been tentatively moved to Cyprus following the political unrest in the Ukraine, only for that fixture too to be thrown into doubt by apparently contradictory statements from the two governing bodies (follow carefully, a parable about the front page-y, gravity-of-the-situation-y, statements from other world leaders may be unfolding).

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

This must be followed carefully.

The Telegraph

The impact of the schemes needs to continue to be followed carefully.

The Guardian

The first employs advanced machine learning, while the second follows carefully crafted rules.

MIT Technology Review

The event is being followed carefully far from its own borders.

The Economist

For those tasked with the governance of intellectual property, health or innovation policy, these legal debates should be followed carefully.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing instructions, use "follow carefully" to stress the importance of accuracy and attention to detail. For example: "To ensure the best results, follow carefully the steps outlined in this guide."

Common error

Avoid using "follow carefully" in excessively passive constructions. Instead of saying "The instructions should be followed carefully", opt for "Follow the instructions carefully" for a more direct and engaging tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "follow carefully" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase that modifies a verb, typically to provide emphasis on how the action should be performed. It suggests a need for precision and attention to detail. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is both correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

32%

Wiki

18%

Less common in

Academia

9%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "follow carefully" functions as an adverbial phrase indicating the necessity of precision and attention when adhering to instructions or a specific course of action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used. It appears most frequently in news, scientific, and wiki contexts. Related phrases include "adhere closely" and "observe meticulously". When using the phrase, ensure clarity and avoid excessive passive constructions. By understanding its grammatical function, communicative purpose, and appropriate contexts, you can effectively use "follow carefully" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

adhere closely

Emphasizes sticking to something with precision.

observe meticulously

Highlights the importance of detailed observation.

execute precisely

Focuses on performing a task with exactness.

track diligently

Suggests consistent and thorough monitoring.

mind heedfully

Indicates careful attention and consideration.

heed closely

Highlights the action of paying attention.

pay close attention

A more general way of indicating the need for careful observation.

stick to the plan

Focuses on maintaining a course of action or strategy.

proceed cautiously

Emphasizes a careful and restrained approach.

monitor vigilantly

Stresses the need for watchful observation.

FAQs

How can I use "follow carefully" in a sentence?

You can use "follow carefully" to emphasize the importance of accuracy when giving instructions or describing a process. For example, "Please follow carefully the steps outlined in the manual to ensure proper assembly."

What does it mean to say to "follow carefully"?

When someone says to "follow carefully", it means they want you to pay close attention and adhere strictly to the instructions or guidelines provided to avoid mistakes or achieve the desired outcome.

What can I say instead of "follow carefully"?

You can use alternatives like "adhere closely", "observe meticulously", or "pay close attention" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "carefully follow" or "follow carefully"?

Both "carefully follow" and "follow carefully" are grammatically correct, but "follow carefully" is more common. While "carefully follow" places more emphasis on the manner of following, the standard phrasing is "follow carefully".