01
folgen
to follow
To move behind someone or something; to go or drive after them.
example
Folgen Sie mir, ich zeige Ihnen den Weg zum Büro.
Follow me, I'll show you the way to the office.
folgen
to follow
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Always with the dative
The verb 'folgen' always takes the dative. This is an important rule because many other languages use a direct object (accusative).
EXAMPLE
Der Hund folgt seinem Besitzer überallhin.
The dog follows its owner everywhere.
Perfect tense with 'sein'
The Perfekt past tense is formed with the auxiliary verb 'sein' (to be), not with 'haben' (to have). This applies to all meanings of the verb.
EXAMPLE
Ich bin dem Auto bis zur nächsten Kreuzung gefolgt.
I followed the car as far as the next intersection.
Word family
'Folgen' is the basis for words like 'die Folge' (consequence, episode) and 'folgend' (following/next). The idea of a sequence or consequence connects these words.
EXAMPLE
Der Stau war die Folge eines Unfalls.
The traffic jam was the result of an accident.
Context clue
In the meaning 'verstehen' (to understand), 'folgen' is often used in negative sentences or questions, especially when dealing with complex explanations or fast speakers.
EXAMPLE
Entschuldigung, ich kann Ihnen nicht ganz folgen. Könnten Sie das wiederholen?
Sorry, I can't quite follow you. Could you repeat that?
Fixed preposition
When 'folgen' expresses a logical consequence, the preposition 'aus' (+ dative) is always used. The structure is: 'Ergebnis folgt aus Ursache' (result follows from cause).
EXAMPLE
Aus seiner Reaktion folgt, dass er mit dem Plan nicht einverstanden ist.
It follows from his reaction that he does not agree with the plan.
Modern usage
The meaning connected with social media is very common. The context (e.g., platform names such as Twitter, Instagram, TikTok) immediately makes clear what is meant.
EXAMPLE
Welchen Accounts folgst du auf Instagram für gute Rezepte?
Which accounts do you follow on Instagram for good recipes?
Compare with
folgen vs kommen
to come
'kommen' and 'folgen' can both express that something comes after something else in a sequence. 'kommen' sounds more general and more everyday: for example, you ask what comes next. 'folgen' is more precise when you want to emphasize that something happens or is mentioned directly after another part. In programs, texts, or procedures, 'folgen' often sounds a little more formal or more orderly.
folgen
Auf die kurze Begrüßung folgt ein Vortrag über moderne Kunst.
The short welcome is followed by a lecture on modern art.
kommen
Nach der Pause kommt der zweite Teil des Kurses.
After the break comes the second part of the course.
In real life
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