following the command

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "following the command" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate actions or behaviors that occur as a result of a command being given. Example: "The robot began moving forward, following the command issued by the operator."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Not following the command of a Secret Service agent is considered a felony, but Mr. Saez said that usually, when a person refuses a request to move out of the way, "cooler heads prevail".

The New York Times

If you've been following the Command & Conquer 4 development, you probably know the final game in this series is going to be a bit different.

TechCrunch

For Christians, that means following "the command to love God and our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22)." He added that especially for Latino Christians, "the image of the Madonna and Child profoundly shapes family life.

Huffington Post

Reward the dog for following the command.

WikiHow

Immediately following the command to "display", the caller will issue the order, "SALUTE!" to which all in attendance whom aren't handling the flag should salute.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

It's not about obedient viewers following the commands they see on screen.

Huffington Post

Type the following command into Command Prompt: Bcupdate2.exe C: /F Press "Enter.

WikiHow

Lastly, enter the following in the command line: python SS_sim.py.

Biophysics Reports

Your output should look like the following: Enter the command "free".

WikiHow

To fix it, type the following command before the first command.

WikiHow

Type the following to the command-line prompt: pathping google.com.com

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "following the command", ensure the context clearly indicates who issued the command and what action is being taken in response. Clarity prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "following the command" when referring to suggestions or requests that aren't authoritative. A "command" implies a level of authority, so use a more appropriate phrase like "following the suggestion" or "following the advice" in less formal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "following the command" functions as a gerund phrase acting as a noun, often used as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the act of adhering to a directive. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Wiki

33%

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "following the command" is a grammatically correct phrase that describes adhering to a specific instruction or directive, as supported by Ludwig. Although the phrase is not widely common, it's utilized in diverse contexts, including Wiki, News & Media, and Science. When writing, ensure the context involves a clear directive from an authority. Related phrases include "obeying the instruction" and "adhering to the order". Remember to avoid using it in situations where the instruction is a suggestion rather than an actual command.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obeying the instruction

This alternative replaces 'command' with 'instruction' and 'following' with 'obeying', emphasizing adherence to guidance.

adhering to the order

This phrase substitutes 'following' with 'adhering' and 'command' with 'order', indicating compliance with a directive.

complying with the directive

This option uses 'complying' instead of 'following' and 'directive' in place of 'command', focusing on fulfilling an official requirement.

executing the order

This alternative changes 'following' to 'executing', emphasizing the performance of a given command or instruction.

acting upon the instruction

This option substitutes 'following' with 'acting upon', indicating a response to an instruction or command.

heeding the direction

This phrase replaces 'following' with 'heeding' and 'command' with 'direction', underscoring attention and obedience to guidance.

respecting the rule

This phrase replaces "command" with "rule" and implies a more general type of instruction, emphasizing respect for established guidelines.

observing the regulation

This phrase replaces "command" with "regulation", shifting the context towards formal compliance and adherence to prescribed standards.

abiding by the decree

This option replaces "following" with "abiding by" and "command" with "decree", suggesting adherence to a formal or authoritative order.

upholding the mandate

This phrase replaces "command" with "mandate" and stresses the act of supporting or maintaining a command, indicating a sense of duty or obligation.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "following the command" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, you could use phrases like "in compliance with the directive" or "pursuant to the instruction". These alternatives add a layer of formality suitable for professional or academic settings.

What is a simpler way to say "following the command"?

Simpler alternatives include "obeying the order" or "doing as told". These options are more direct and easier to understand in everyday conversations.

In what situations is it appropriate to use "following the command"?

"Following the command" is most appropriate when referring to adherence to a specific instruction given by someone in authority, such as a military officer, a supervisor, or a system administrator. For example, "The soldier was disciplined for not "following the command"".

What's the difference between "following the command" and "executing the instruction"?

"Following the command" implies general adherence to an order, while "executing the instruction" suggests actively carrying out a specific task as directed. The latter emphasizes action and implementation.