What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
traced
Example
The detective traced the suspect's movements on the night of the crime. [traced: past tense]
Example
She traced the outline of the flower onto the paper. [traced: verb]
Example
The archaeologist traced the origins of the ancient civilization. [traced: past tense]
follow
Example
I will follow you to the store. [follow: verb]
Example
I'm sorry, can you repeat that? I'm having trouble following your argument. [following: gerund or present participle]
Example
Please follow the safety guidelines when using the equipment. [follow: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Follow is more commonly used than traced in everyday language. Follow is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while traced is less common and often has a more formal or technical connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between traced and follow?
While traced is typically associated with a more formal or technical tone, follow is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
