Definition

1. Verb (transitive):
   • To increase the effectiveness or success of something by taking further action after an initial step or event.
   • To pursue an initial action to a conclusion or bring it to a successful issue.

Usage

The verb "follow up" is used to describe the action of taking additional steps to ensure the completion, success, or enhancement of a previous action, plan, or suggestion. It implies a sequence where the second action builds upon the first.

Examples

• Verb:
  • The doctor decided to follow up the surgery with a course of physical therapy.
  • After the initial meeting, she followed up with a detailed email to clarify the points discussed.
  • The manager followed up on the customer's complaint to ensure it was resolved satisfactorily.

Advanced Usage

• "to follow up on something": This is a common phrasal verb construction meaning to take further action concerning a specific matter, idea, or task.
  • The journalist promised to follow up on the lead with more investigation.
  • Please follow up on this invoice with the accounting department.

Variants and Related Words

• Follow-up (noun or adjective): The act or an instance of following up. As an adjective, it describes something intended to follow an initial action.
  • Noun: The patient was scheduled for a follow-up in six weeks.
  • Adjective: She sent a follow-up question after the interview.

Synonyms

• Pursue: To follow or proceed with a course of action.
• Implement: To put a decision, plan, or agreement into effect.
• Reinforce: To strengthen or support with additional action or material.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Follow through: To continue an action or task to its completion. (Note: "Follow through" often emphasizes completion, while "follow up" emphasizes subsequent, enhancing action.)
  • He had a great idea but failed to follow through with its execution.

Related Idioms

• Dot the i's and cross the t's: To pay meticulous attention to finishing details, which is a key aspect of a thorough follow-up.
  • Before submitting the report, make sure to dot the i's and cross the t's.

Verb

1. increase the effectiveness or success of by further action
   • The doctor followed up the surgery with radiation
2. pursue to a conclusion or bring to a successful issue
   • Did he go through with the treatment?
   • He implemented a new economic plan
   • She followed up his recommendations with a written proposal