following a pattern

USAGE SUMMARY

"following a pattern" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe the act of taking an action that adheres to a predefined plan or procedure. For example, "The students worked on the project by following a pattern that their teacher had shown them."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mr. McKeever said managed care insurance was moving into "underwriting cycles" of three years of losses followed by three years of profits, following a pattern in traditional insurance.

The New York Times

Following the dual immunization, Ab levels against BAL protein were higher than those against IIIB, following a pattern similar to that found after the EnvBF immunization scheme.

Plosone

The strikes are following a pattern.

The New York Times

When they did go, they bought tentatively, following a pattern that began in February.

The New York Times

The recent rain-days at Wimbledon are following a pattern of wet second weeks in SW19.

The Guardian - Sport

The author sees life in the village as following a pattern of unity.

The New Yorker

For coincidence means that what might appear random is in fact following a pattern.

The Guardian - Books

Trump, however, seems to be following a pattern of personal and sexually explicit attacks against women who have slighted him.

The Guardian

The PGI-I, while following a pattern similar to that found with the HDRS24, was less consistent.

Nature

The cascade framework links ecological processes with elements of human well-being following a pattern similar to a production chain.

Ecological Indicators

Both developments initially bolstered confidence, and major indexes moved higher before investors, following a pattern set in recent weeks, cashed in their profits in afternoon trading.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "following a pattern" to clearly indicate that actions or events are not random but instead conform to an identifiable sequence or model. This improves clarity and predictability in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "following a pattern" when simply describing a sequence of events without implying adherence to a specific, pre-existing model. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound repetitive. Instead, use more descriptive language that reflects a series of events in sequence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "following a pattern" functions as a gerund phrase, often used as part of a verb phrase to describe an action that adheres to a set sequence or design. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, highlighting that it describes actions adhering to predefined plans.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "following a pattern" is a versatile gerund phrase used to describe adherence to a predictable sequence or design. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is appropriate and useful in written English. It is frequently found in news, scientific, and academic writing, indicating its broad applicability. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects adherence to a specific model to avoid overuse or imprecision. Alternatives include phrases like "adhering to a sequence" or "conforming to a model". Understanding its nuances will enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

adhering to a sequence

Changes "following a pattern" to emphasizing adherence to a specific order or series of steps.

conforming to a model

Shifts the focus from a general pattern to a specific, pre-defined model or standard.

maintaining a consistent approach

Highlights the consistency and uniformity in the manner of execution.

keeping in step with a scheme

Emphasizes alignment with a pre-arranged plan or strategy.

observing a set procedure

Focuses on the act of adhering to a formalized and established method.

acting according to a blueprint

Implies adherence to a detailed plan or design, often used in project management.

replicating a design

Highlights the act of copying or reproducing a specific design or arrangement.

echoing a method

Suggests a close imitation or mirroring of a particular technique or style.

mirroring a procedure

Stresses the exact duplication of a defined process.

aligning with a course of action

Focuses on the adjustment of actions to match a predetermined path or strategy.

FAQs

How can I use "following a pattern" in a sentence?

You can use "following a pattern" to describe a situation where something is happening in a predictable or recurring way. For example, "The company's sales are "following a pattern" of growth in the first quarter and decline in the third."

What are some alternatives to "following a pattern"?

Alternatives to "following a pattern" include phrases like "adhering to a sequence", "conforming to a model", or "maintaining a consistent approach", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "following a pattern" or "follow a pattern"?

"Following a pattern" is often used as part of a longer verb phrase (e.g., "is following a pattern"). "Follow a pattern" is the base verb form and can be used when instructing someone to adhere to a pattern.

What's the difference between "following a pattern" and "observing a pattern"?

"Following a pattern" implies active adherence or replication of a sequence, while "observing a pattern" suggests noticing or recognizing a recurring sequence without necessarily acting upon it.