follow up

USAGE SUMMARY

“follow up” is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to something that is done after an initial action. For example, you can say: I will follow up with you after the meeting to ensure that all of the tasks are completed.

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Academia

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Three pieces of advice: follow up, follow up, follow up.

Cornell University

"They do follow up".

The New York Times

Will they follow up?

The New York Times

No follow up required.

The New York Times

And follow up the follow-up.

The New York Times

I will follow up.

Cornell University

Then follow up.

Harvard University

There was no follow up.

The New York Times

Follow up, follow up and follow up.

Forbes

Follow Up.

Forbes

Finally, follow up.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "follow up" in a professional context, specify the method (e.g., "follow up by email") and the timeframe (e.g., "follow up in a week") to ensure clarity.

Common error

Don't just say you'll "follow up". Be specific about what action you'll take and when. For example, instead of "I'll follow up", say "I'll send you the document by Friday and then call you next week to discuss it."

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "follow up" is as a phrasal verb, acting to extend or continue an action or process. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable form in various written contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

32%

News & Media

24%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Science

11%

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "follow up" is a versatile and commonly used phrasal verb that means to take further action after an initial step. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts, spanning from Wiki articles to academic papers. It is frequently used in professional settings, as well as in news and academic contexts. When using "follow up", clarity is key, so specify the method and timeframe. Alternatives include "pursue further" or "get back in touch". Be specific about what action you'll take. Overall, "follow up" is a valuable tool for ensuring tasks are completed and relationships are maintained.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get back in touch

Emphasizes re-establishing communication after a period of time.

touch base again

Highlights a brief check-in for updates or confirmation.

check in on

Focuses on monitoring progress or well-being.

pursue further

Focuses on continuing an action or investigation, rather than maintaining contact.

keep in communication

Similar to "get back in touch", but may suggest continuous contact.

revisit the matter

Indicates a return to a previously discussed topic or issue.

continue communication

Emphasizes the ongoing exchange of information.

monitor the situation

Places more emphasis on observing and tracking progress.

take additional steps

Highlights the action of adding more measures in solving a problem or issue.

act subsequently

A more formal way of saying to act after something else, implies an action that happens immediately after.

FAQs

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

You can use "follow up" to describe taking further action after an initial step. For example, "I will "follow up" with an email after our meeting."

What's a more formal way to say "follow up"?

In a more formal context, consider using phrases like "pursue further" or "take additional steps" as alternatives to "follow up".

Is it always necessary to "follow up"?

No, there are situations where "following up" might not be appropriate, such as when explicitly asked not to or when the matter has been clearly resolved. Always consider the context.

What's the best way to "follow up" after a job interview?

A thank-you note or email sent within 24 hours after the interview is a good way to "follow up". Reiterate your interest in the position and highlight key qualifications.