follow up

/ˌfɑloʊ ˈʌp/

Reviewed on

Type

Phrasal verb

Meaning

  1. To take further action on something previously started, discussed, or investigated.

    • I will follow up on that email tomorrow morning.

    • Did the detective ever follow up that lead?

  2. To pursue a further conversation or inquiry with someone after an initial contact.

    • She followed up with the hiring manager a week after her interview.

    • Make sure to follow up with the client before the end of the week.

How it's used

When this means “pursue an issue or lead”

  • follow up on the report
  • follow the report up

Say “follow up on it.” Not “follow it up.”

The manager decided to follow up on the customer's complaint.

When this means “contact a person again”

  • follow up with the client

Say “follow up with her.” Not “follow her up.”

I need to follow up with the doctor about the test results.

Collocations

  • follow up on a lead
  • follow up on an email
  • follow up on a complaint
  • follow up with a doctor

Synonyms

  • pursue
  • check back