pattern to follow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pattern to follow" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific model or example that one should adhere to or replicate in a given context. Example: "The project guidelines provide a clear pattern to follow for successful implementation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Brushing and flossing after dinner, not eating afterward, and having a healthy breakfast each morning might set a good pattern to follow.

The New York Times - Science

I passed through a sad and enchanted mirror: I walked Sonny as I had walked Thomas, facing him, his hands in mine, giving him a footstep pattern to follow, holding his eyes with encouragement.

The New Yorker

This would let the pattern to follow the object very smoothly as it turns.

Robotics and Biomimetics

When these pattern-forming genes are mutated, embryonic cells have an abnormal pattern to follow.

Science Magazine

He was given the Golden Age Award which is reserved for "those who did it first, the people who had no pattern to follow".

Wikipedia

That first day seemed pretty random to me trying to find a pattern to follow or create one in a situation where the healthcare providers had been so overwhelmed that there was little sense of organization as we responded to a chorus of "doctor, doctor!" every time that we entered the wards.

American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Linear perspective, he added, does not allow artists to paint patterns, to follow folds in material or to shine in armor.

The New York Times - Books

The agency is in the middle of five separate studies about bus service in the state; the largest study is in and around Newark, the territory served by the 62. "We have to evolve with the land-use patterns, to follow the population and the demand".

The New York Times

That's 24 months of hardship, wandering through the desert and traveling through crazy weather patterns to "follow the star" so they might behold with their own eyes the promised one.

Huffington Post

You may make paper patterns to follow if a form that has a number of sides is desired.

WikiHow

One day's patrol with Commander Mamack's militia was led by Joe, a staff sergeant and one of the two weapons specialists, who mapped out the maze-like pattern to be followed by Python 33 and the local forces.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing instructions or guidelines, use "pattern to follow" to clearly indicate a recommended procedure or standard.

Common error

Avoid using "pattern to follow" in situations where a simpler phrase like "example" or "guide" would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pattern to follow" primarily functions as a noun phrase that describes a model, example, or standard that should be imitated or adhered to. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it indicates a recommended or required approach.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

29%

Wiki

21%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "pattern to follow" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that describes a model, example, or standard for replication or adherence. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and general instructions. While versatile, it's important to avoid overuse in overly simplistic situations, as simpler alternatives may be more appropriate. Related phrases include "template to follow" and "model to emulate", which offer similar meanings with slight nuances. Use "pattern to follow" when clarity and precision are needed in communicating a recommended procedure or standard.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

model to follow

Replaces "pattern" with "model", suggesting a specific example or representation to imitate.

scheme to follow

Replaces "pattern" with "scheme", implying a more structured and potentially strategic approach.

plan to follow

Substitutes "pattern" with "plan", suggesting a predetermined course of action.

trend to follow

Replaces "pattern" with "trend", indicating a prevailing direction or style to emulate.

example to emulate

Uses "emulate" instead of "follow", implying a conscious effort to match or surpass the original example.

behavior to follow

Replaces "pattern" with "behavior", focusing on actions or conduct to be imitated.

frame to follow

Substitutes "pattern" with "frame", implying a structured set of parameters or guidelines.

master to follow

Replaces "pattern" with "master", signifying an expert or leader whose example should be emulated.

mode to follow

Replaces "pattern" with "mode", conveying a style or manner of doing something.

pattern to implement

Focuses on putting a pre-existing pattern into action, rather than simply following an example.

FAQs

How can I use "pattern to follow" in a sentence?

You can use "pattern to follow" when describing a method, example, or standard that should be imitated or adhered to. For instance, "The company provided a detailed "model to follow" for new employees".

What can I say instead of "pattern to follow"?

You can use alternatives like "template to follow", "example to emulate", or "model to replicate" depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "pattern to follow" and "sequence to follow"?

"Pattern to follow" implies a general model or standard, while "sequence to follow" suggests a specific order or series of steps. The choice depends on whether you're referring to a broad guideline or a specific procedure.

When is it appropriate to use "pattern to follow" in professional writing?

"Pattern to follow" is suitable in professional contexts when you need to clearly communicate a recommended or required method, especially in technical documentation, training materials, or strategic guidelines. It helps establish a "plan to follow".