Follow-up, Follow up, or Followup?
The English language can be tricky, and even native speakers often stumble over grammar and spelling. One common point of confusion is the difference between “follow-up” and “follow up.” To make things even more complicated, some people incorrectly use “followup” as one word.
So, what’s the right way to use these terms? This article breaks down the grammatical differences between “follow-up” and “follow up,” providing clear explanations and examples of how to use each one correctly.
Using correct grammar in your writing is essential for maintaining credibility and clarity, particularly in professional and academic settings. Avoiding common mistakes shows attention to detail and strengthens your message.
“Follow-up” as a noun and adjective
Believe it or not, “follow-up” with a hyphen is correct some of the time. It all depends on how you’re using the term.
“Follow-up” as a noun
When you’re talking about an action or event that results from an earlier action or event, “follow-up” is a noun and requires a hyphen.
Here are a couple of examples:
- “The doctor scheduled a follow-up appointment for next month.”
- “After the first meeting, the team still needed a detailed follow-up strategy.”
“Follow-up” as an adjective
“Follow-up” can also function as an adjective. In this case, it’s describing something related to a subsequent event.
Here are a couple of examples:
- “Our team will be holding a follow-up meeting next week.”
- “I sent a follow-up email to the hiring manager.”
“Follow up” as a verb
Okay, so let’s talk about “follow up” as two words. This is when it’s a verb, meaning it’s describing an action. “Follow up” means to take further action after something has already started.
Here are a few examples of “follow up” used in a sentence:
- “I’ll send you an email to follow up on our conversation.”
- “I want to follow up on my application for the job.”
Notice that when you use “follow up” as a verb, it’s often followed by the words “on” or “with.” For example, you might “follow up with the vendor” or “follow up on the meeting.”
Debunking “Followup”: The Nonexistent Word
Let’s be clear: “followup” (all one word) isn’t really a word. Most dictionaries don’t recognize it, and it’s generally considered incorrect.
It’s best to avoid using “followup” in formal writing. Using correct grammar makes you look more credible and professional.
Practical Tips and Tricks for Mastery
Still finding it tricky to choose the right form? Here are a few tips to help you master “follow up” vs. “follow-up.”
The “To” Test
Here’s a neat little trick that can help you decide which form to use: Try putting the word “to” in front of the phrase. If the sentence still makes sense, use “follow up,” the verb form. If it doesn’t make sense, use “follow-up,” the adjective or noun.
For example:
- “I’d like to follow up on my application” (Correct! Use “follow up”)
- “I scheduled to follow-up appointment” (Incorrect! It should be “a follow-up appointment”)
Remembering the Hyphen’s Role
The hyphen in “follow-up” is there to show that the words are connected, that they’re working together to modify something else. Without the hyphen, “follow up” is simply the action of following up.
Practice and Review
The best way to learn is by doing! Actively use both forms in your writing, and check back with examples and explanations to reinforce your understanding. You’ll be a “follow up” vs. “follow-up” pro in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you spell “follow-up appointment”?
The correct spelling is “follow-up appointment,” with a hyphen. When used as an adjective before a noun, “follow-up” requires a hyphen to link the words and show they function as a single descriptive unit. Without the hyphen, it would be grammatically incorrect in this context.
Does “follow up” have a hyphen?
The use of a hyphen depends on how the term is used. When “follow up” is used as a verb (e.g., “I need to follow up on that email”), it’s two separate words and doesn’t require a hyphen. However, when used as an adjective or a noun (e.g., “a follow-up call” or “the follow-up was successful”), it’s typically hyphenated.
How do you use “follow up” in a sentence?
As a verb: “I will follow up with you next week to discuss the project further.” As a noun (hyphenated): “The follow-up meeting is scheduled for Friday.” As an adjective (hyphenated): “This email is a follow-up to our conversation last week.” The hyphen indicates that ‘follow’ and ‘up’ are working together to modify the noun.
Which is correct, “follow-on” or “follow-up”?
Both “follow-on” and “follow-up” are correct, but they have slightly different meanings and are used in different contexts. “Follow-up” generally refers to an action taken after an initial event to continue or monitor progress. “Follow-on” typically refers to something that comes after or is a consequence of something else, often in a more sequential or developmental sense.
Final Thoughts
“Follow-up” is a noun or adjective, while “follow up” is a verb. Using the right form will help you communicate clearly and effectively.
Avoid “followup” altogether. It’s not considered a standard spelling, and using it can make your writing look sloppy.
Now that you know the difference, put these tips into practice. The more you pay attention to the way you use “follow-up” and “follow up,” the more confident and accurate you’ll become in your writing. Good luck!