What are the definitions of “follow through”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Do what is necessary to complete something or make it successful.
The project went wrong when the staff failed to FOLLOW THROUGH.
- 2Continue moving limbs after hitting a ball.
You need to FOLLOW THROUGH smoothly when playing golf.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “follow through”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb follow through is to complete a task or action, ensuring its success. It means to continue working on something until it is finished or to make sure that a plan or promise is carried out.
What are the different verb forms of “follow through”?
| Root Verb | follow through |
| Third Person Singular Present | follows through |
| Present Participle | following through |
| Simple Past | followed through |
| Past Participle | followed through |
Example
She always follows through on her promises.
Example
He follows through with his plans to start a business.
Example
They are following through on their commitment to improve the community.
Example
We followed through on our plan to renovate the house.
Example
The team followed through on their promise to win the championship.
What kind of phrasal verb is “follow through”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“follow through” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
She always follows through on her promises.
Example
He follows through with his plans to start a business.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“follow through” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She always follows through on her promises.
Example
He follows through with his plans to start a business.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “follow through”?
Good things to know
Does “follow through” have an informal or formal tone?
Follow through is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as professional settings, depending on the specific context.
