Meaning and Usage
The verb '뒤따르다' means 'to follow' or 'to come after someone or something.' It is often used when one person or object moves behind another in a physical or figurative sense.
Common Contexts
You will frequently hear '뒤따르다' in everyday situations such as walking behind someone, driving behind another car, or following a sequence of events.
Collocations and Patterns
- '누구를 뒤따르다' (to follow someone): used when physically following a person.
- '차를 뒤따르다' (to follow a car): common in driving contexts.
- '뒤따르지 않다' (not to follow closely): often used as a caution or instruction.
Register and Politeness
'뒤따르다' is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is a standard verb without special honorific forms.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse '뒤따르다' with '따르다,' which can mean 'to obey' or 'to follow' in a more abstract sense. '뒤따르다' specifically emphasizes physical following or coming after in order or position. To avoid confusion, remember that '뒤따르다' often involves spatial or sequential following.