Meaning
跟着 means to follow someone or something, either physically (walking behind) or figuratively (following instructions, trends, etc.). The 着 (zhe) particle indicates a continuous or ongoing action. It can function as a verb meaning 'to follow' or as a preposition meaning 'following' or 'along with'.
Usage
Native speakers commonly use 跟着 when describing following someone's lead, imitating actions, or moving behind someone. It often appears with another verb to show that two actions happen simultaneously (跟着唱 'sing along', 跟着学 'learn by following'). The tone is neutral and suitable for all registers. When used as a preposition, it typically precedes a noun or pronoun.
Examples
- 01孩子们跟着老师一起唱歌。.The children sang along with the teacher.
- 02你先走，我跟着你。, .You go first, I'll follow you.
Characters
Common collocations
- 跟着走to follow along (walking)
- 跟着学to learn by following
- 跟着唱to sing along
- 跟着做to follow along (doing)
Antonyms
Origin
跟 originally meant 'heel' (the part of the foot), which naturally extended to mean 'to follow' since your heel follows you. Combined with the durative particle 着, it emphasizes the ongoing nature of following.