What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
follow
Example
I will follow you to the park. [follow: verb]
Example
Please follow the instructions carefully. [follow: verb]
Example
I like to follow my favorite author's writing career. [follow: verb]
track
Example
The hunter tracked the deer through the forest. [tracked: past tense]
Example
The company tracks its employees' attendance. [tracks: present tense]
Example
The historian tracked the origins of the ancient civilization. [tracked: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Follow is more commonly used than track in everyday language, as it is more versatile and covers a wider range of contexts. Track is more specific and is often used in more technical or specialized fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between follow and track?
Both follow and track can be used in formal and informal contexts, but track may be more commonly used in technical or specialized fields, where it is necessary to monitor or record someone's movements or activities.