Following

Definition

Following refers to the action of coming after or being next in sequence, time, or place. It can also denote a group of supporters or admirers, or it can be used as a preposition to mean "after" an event or action.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun
• Preposition

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɑːloʊɪŋ/
• Respelling: FAH-loh-ing

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɒləʊɪŋ/
• Respelling: FOL-oh-ing

Etymology

The word "following" is derived from the Old English "folgian," meaning "to accompany or go after," which traces back to Proto-Germanic "*fulgōną*" (to follow) and Proto-Indo-European "*sekw-" (to follow or pursue). The word evolved to include meanings of succession, support, and sequence.

Derivatives

• Follow (verb)
• Follower (noun)
• Follow-up (noun/adjective)
• Followingly (adverb, rare)
• Unfollowing (noun/verb)

Synonyms

• Subsequent
• Next
• Supporters

Antonyms

• Preceding
• Prior
• Leader

Usage

The term "following" is commonly used in contexts related to sequence, support, or post-event actions. For example, "The following day, they resumed their journey," or "She has a large following on social media."

Related Terms

• Sequence: A series of related events or actions in order.
• Adherence: Commitment or attachment to a person or belief.
• Successor: A person or thing that follows another in position or order.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Next in time, order, or sequence: Refers to something that comes after.
  • Example: "The following chapter explains the theory in detail."

Noun

• A group of supporters or admirers: Refers to people who follow or support a person, cause, or entity.
  • Example: "The author has a loyal following."

Preposition

• After in time or sequence: Describes an event or action that happens subsequent to another.
  • Example: "Following the meeting, they decided to implement the plan."