the following

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the following" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a list, explanation, or example that comes next in the text. Example: "Please review the following points before the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The following day.

The New York Times

Well, consider the following.

The New York Times

Consider the following experiment.

The New York Times - Science

The following month Pres.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The following day Pres.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mulch the following spring.

Independent

The following conditions apply.

The New York Times

the following year.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The following entries….

The New Yorker

billion the following day.

The New York Times

Consider the following argument.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the following" to clearly introduce lists, examples, or explanations that are directly relevant to the preceding context. This ensures clarity and helps readers anticipate what's coming next.

Common error

Avoid using "the following" if there isn't a direct and obvious reference to what you're about to introduce. Ensure that the items you're introducing are logically connected to the preceding statement, preventing confusion for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the following" serves as a determiner and introducer. Ludwig AI indicates its purpose is to signal that specific information, such as a list, examples, or conditions, will be presented immediately afterward. It enhances clarity and guides the reader.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the following" is a versatile phrase used to introduce subsequent information, like lists or examples. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and broad applicability across various writing styles. It's most common in news, encyclopedias and wiki contexts, providing clarity and structure. When employing "the following", ensure a direct reference to what follows, and consider alternatives like "the subsequent" or "as follows" for stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the next

A simpler and more direct way to indicate what comes immediately after.

the subsequent

Replaces "following" with a synonym indicating sequence.

the ensuing

Suggests a consequential or temporal sequence.

the listed below

Directly refers to a list presented after the current statement.

the undermentioned

Specifically highlights that something will be mentioned below.

which follows

Connects a statement to what will be explained or detailed next.

the succeeding

Similar to "subsequent", but may imply a more direct succession.

as follows

Introduces a list or explanation in a formal tone.

the coming

Implies something is approaching or about to happen/be listed.

that will follow

Indicates a future sequence or addition.

FAQs

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

"The following" is typically used to introduce a list, explanation, or example. For instance, "Please review "the following points" before the meeting" or "Consider "the following example" to understand the concept better."

What can I say instead of "the following"?

You can use alternatives like "the subsequent", "the ensuing", or "the next" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "the following is as follows"?

While not strictly incorrect, saying "the following is as follows" can sound redundant. It's generally better to simply use either "the following" or "as follows" to introduce a list or explanation.

When should I use "the following" versus "below"?

"The following" is used to introduce information that comes immediately after the current statement, while "below" refers to something located physically lower on the page. If you are listing information directly afterward, "the following" is more appropriate.