Ensue vs Follow: When And How Can You Use Each One?

Have you ever been confused about when to use “ensue” versus “follow”? While these two words are often used interchangeably, there are subtle differences between them that can impact the meaning of your sentence. In this article, we’ll explore the nuances of these two words and provide examples to help you use them correctly.

Let’s define the two words. “Ensue” means to happen as a result of something else, while “follow” means to come after or go along with something else. While both words involve one event happening after another, “ensue” implies a direct cause-and-effect relationship, while “follow” simply indicates a sequence of events.

So, which word should you use in a given situation? It depends on the context and the meaning you want to convey. In the rest of this article, we’ll explore some common scenarios where you might use “ensue” or “follow” and provide tips for choosing the right word.

Define Ensue

Ensuе is a verb that means to happen or occur as a result of something else. It is often used to describe a sequence of events or consequences that follow a particular action or situation. In other words, when one thing ensues, it is a direct outcome or consequence of something that came before it.

Ensuе is sometimes used interchangeably with the word “follow,” but there are subtle differences in meaning between the two. While both words describe a sequence of events, ensuе implies a more direct cause-and-effect relationship, while follow can be used to describe a broader range of circumstances.

Define Follow

Follow is a verb that means to come after or go behind something or someone. It is often used to describe a sequence of events or actions that occur in a particular order. In other words, when one thing follows another, it comes after it in time or space.

Follow can also be used in a more metaphorical sense to describe a process of imitation or adherence to a set of rules or principles. For example, one might say that a particular company is following industry best practices or that a person is following a strict diet and exercise regimen.

Comparison of ensue vs follow

Ensuе	Follow
Implies a direct cause-and-effect relationship	Can describe a broader range of circumstances
Often used to describe consequences or outcomes	Often used to describe sequences of events or actions
Can be used interchangeably with “result”	Can be used to describe imitation or adherence to rules/principles

How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence

Using words correctly is essential to effective communication. Two words that are often confused are ensue and follow. While they may seem similar in meaning, they have distinct differences that must be understood in order to use them correctly.

How To Use “Ensue” In A Sentence

The word “ensue” means to happen as a result of something else. It is often used to describe a sequence of events that occur after a particular action or situation. Here are some examples of how to use “ensue” in a sentence:

• After the storm, widespread flooding ensued throughout the town.
• If you don’t take care of your health, serious health problems may ensue.
• Once the argument started, a heated debate ensued between the two sides.

It is important to note that “ensue” is often used in the past tense, as it describes events that have already happened. For example:

• After the team scored their first goal, a series of quick passes ensued, leading to another goal.
• Once the fire started, chaos ensued as people tried to escape the building.

How To Use “Follow” In A Sentence

The word “follow” means to come after or go behind someone or something. It can also mean to comply with or adhere to a particular set of instructions or guidelines. Here are some examples of how to use “follow” in a sentence:

• The dog followed its owner wherever she went.
• After the meeting, the team will follow up with a detailed report.
• It is important to follow the rules of the road to ensure everyone’s safety.

Like “ensue,” “follow” can also be used in the past tense to describe events that have already happened. For example:

• After the parade, a group of children followed the marching band down the street.
• Once the first speaker finished, a round of applause followed from the audience.

Remember, using the correct word in a sentence is important to ensure clear and effective communication. By understanding the differences between “ensue” and “follow,” you can use them correctly in your writing and speaking.

More Examples Of Ensue & Follow Used In Sentences

In order to better understand the nuances between the words “ensue” and “follow,” it’s helpful to examine how they are used in context. Below are several examples of both words used in sentences:

Examples Of Using Ensue In A Sentence

• After the initial conflict, a period of peace ensued.
• If you don’t take care of your health, serious consequences may ensue.
• When the company announced its bankruptcy, chaos ensued in the stock market.
• After the storm, a massive cleanup effort ensued in the affected areas.
• Following the argument, an awkward silence ensued between the two friends.
• After the first goal was scored, a flurry of activity ensued on the soccer field.
• When the fire alarm went off, a panicked rush ensued to evacuate the building.
• After the breakup, a period of sadness and reflection ensued for the heartbroken individual.
• If the company doesn’t change its practices, legal action may ensue.
• Following the unexpected announcement, a heated debate ensued among the politicians.

Examples Of Using Follow In A Sentence

• After the meeting, please follow up with an email summarizing the key points.
• If you want to succeed, you must follow through on your commitments.
• When you’re lost, it’s best to follow the directions of someone who knows the area.
• After the introduction, please follow the guidelines for the presentation.
• When using a recipe, it’s important to follow the instructions precisely.
• After the initial research, the team will follow up with a more detailed report.
• If you’re unsure about the answer, please follow up with additional research.
• When driving, it’s important to follow the rules of the road for safety reasons.
• After the interview, the company will follow up with a decision within a week.
• If you want to improve your skills, you should follow the advice of experienced professionals.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

When it comes to using words like “ensue” and “follow,” it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking they can be used interchangeably. However, this is not the case, and using them incorrectly can lead to confusion and miscommunication. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Using “Ensue” And “Follow” As Synonyms

One of the most common mistakes people make is using “ensue” and “follow” as synonyms. While they may seem similar, they have distinct meanings. “Follow” means to come after or go along behind, while “ensue” means to happen as a result of something else. For example:

• Incorrect: The meeting will ensue the presentation.
• Correct: The meeting will follow the presentation.

Using “ensue” in this context implies that the meeting will happen as a result of the presentation, which is not what the speaker intends to convey.

Confusing Cause And Effect

Another mistake people make is confusing cause and effect when using “ensue.” “Ensue” should only be used to describe something that happens as a result of something else. For example:

• Incorrect: The argument ensued the disagreement.
• Correct: The argument followed the disagreement.

In this context, “ensue” implies that the argument caused the disagreement, which is not what the speaker intends to convey.

Using “Ensue” In The Wrong Tense

Finally, people often use “ensue” in the wrong tense. “Ensue” should be used in the present tense to describe something that is happening as a result of something else happening in the present. For example:

• Incorrect: The argument will ensue if he doesn’t apologize.
• Correct: The argument will follow if he doesn’t apologize.

In this context, “ensue” implies that the argument is currently happening as a result of the apology not being given, which is not what the speaker intends to convey.

Tips To Avoid These Mistakes:

• Use “follow” when describing something that comes after or goes along behind something else.
• Use “ensue” only when describing something that happens as a result of something else.
• Make sure you are using “ensue” in the present tense when describing something that is happening as a result of something else happening in the present.

Context Matters

Choosing between the words “ensue” and “follow” can often depend on the context in which they are used. While both words can be used to describe a sequence of events, they may not always be interchangeable.

Examples Of Different Contexts:

• Cause and Effect: In situations where there is a clear cause and effect relationship, “ensue” is often the better choice. For example, “After the heavy rain, flooding ensued in the low-lying areas.” Here, “ensued” is used to indicate that the flooding was a direct result of the heavy rain.
• Order of Events: When describing a series of events in a specific order, “follow” is often the better choice. For example, “We will review the agenda. Then, we will follow with a discussion on the budget.” Here, “follow” is used to indicate the order in which the events will occur.
• Logical Sequence: In situations where there is a logical sequence of events, either “ensue” or “follow” can be used. For example, “If the company fails to meet its sales targets, a decline in profits will ensue/follow.” Here, both words could be used interchangeably to indicate the logical sequence of events.

It’s important to consider the context in which these words are used to ensure that the correct word is chosen. Choosing the wrong word can lead to confusion and miscommunication.

Exceptions To The Rules

While the rules for using ensue and follow are generally straightforward, there are some exceptions to be aware of. These exceptions can cause confusion for even the most experienced writers. Here are some cases where the usual rules might not apply:

1. Intransitive Verbs

When ensue and follow are used as intransitive verbs, they do not require an object. In other words, they do not need to be followed by a direct object. For example:

• The accident ensued.
• Chaos followed.

In these cases, ensue and follow are used to describe what happened next, without specifying what caused it or what came before it.

2. Colloquial Usage

While it is generally best to follow the rules for using ensue and follow, there are some situations where colloquial usage might be more appropriate. For example:

• She followed up with an email.
• He followed through on his promise.

In these cases, follow is used to mean “to take action on” or “to fulfill a commitment.” While this usage might not be strictly correct, it is commonly accepted in informal settings.

3. Idiomatic Expressions

There are also some idiomatic expressions that use ensue or follow in specific ways. For example:

• As night follows day
• One thing led to another

In these cases, ensue and follow are used to convey a specific meaning or idea that is not related to their usual definitions. These expressions should be used carefully, as they might not be familiar to all readers.

By understanding these exceptions to the rules, you can use ensue and follow more effectively in your writing. However, it is important to remember that these exceptions should be used sparingly and only when they are appropriate for the context.

Practice Exercises

Improving your understanding and use of ensue and follow requires practice. Here are some exercises to help you master these words:

Exercise 1: Choose The Correct Word

Sentence	Correct Word
After the storm, a power outage ____________.	ensued
The detective ____________ the suspect to the train station.	followed
The CEO’s resignation ____________ chaos in the company.	ensued
The dog ____________ its owner everywhere.	followed
The new policy ____________ confusion among employees.	ensued
The hiker ____________ the trail markers to stay on the path.	followed

Answer key:

• After the storm, a power outage ensued.
• The detective followed the suspect to the train station.
• The CEO’s resignation ensued chaos in the company.
• The dog followed its owner everywhere.
• The new policy ensued confusion among employees.
• The hiker followed the trail markers to stay on the path.

Exercise 2: Fill In The Blank

Complete each sentence with the correct form of ensue or follow:

1. After the fire was put out, a period of calm ____________.
2. Can you ____________ my instructions to make the cake?
3. If you don’t study, failure will ____________.
4. The police officer ____________ the suspect down the alley.
5. When the band broke up, the lead singer’s solo career ____________.

Answer key:

• After the fire was put out, a period of calm ensued.
• Can you follow my instructions to make the cake?
• If you don’t study, failure will ensue.
• The police officer followed the suspect down the alley.
• When the band broke up, the lead singer’s solo career ensued.

By practicing these exercises, you can improve your understanding and use of ensue and follow in sentences. Remember to pay attention to context and choose the word that best fits the situation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the difference between “ensue” and “follow” is crucial in using these words correctly in writing and speaking. While both words are related to the concept of one event occurring after another, “ensue” carries the connotation of a consequence or result, while “follow” simply refers to a sequence of events.

It is important to note that proper grammar and language use goes beyond just these two words. Continual learning and improvement in language skills can greatly enhance one’s writing and communication abilities.

Key Takeaways

• “Ensue” and “follow” are related to the concept of one event occurring after another, but have distinct differences in meaning.
• “Ensue” carries the connotation of a consequence or result, while “follow” simply refers to a sequence of events.
• Proper grammar and language use is important in effective communication.

By mastering the proper use of “ensue” and “follow”, writers and speakers can convey their intended meaning with clarity and precision. However, it is important to continue learning and improving language skills to become a more effective communicator.