The phrase "follows closely" is spelled /ˈfɒləʊz ˈkləʊsli/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "fol-" is pronounced with the short "o" sound and the second syllable "-lows" is pronounced with a long "o" sound. The final syllable "-ly" is pronounced with a clear "l" sound and an unstressed "i" sound. The word "closely" is spelled with a silent "e" at the end, indicating that the preceding "o" is pronounced with a long sound. The proper spelling of this word helps to accurately convey its meaning to the reader or listener.
"Follows closely" is a phrase used to describe a situation or action that is in close pursuit, proximity, or adherence to another. It implies a sense of immediate proximity or tracking, suggesting a close and continuous association or sequence.
In a literal sense, "follows closely" can refer to one's physical position or movement in relation to another person or object. It suggests that one is remaining very near, directly behind, or in continuous pursuit of the other, maintaining an intimate and constant connection.
The phrase is also commonly used in a figurative sense to describe a close succession or adherence of events, ideas, or actions. It signifies that one event or action occurs immediately after another, often being influenced or inspired by the preceding one. This indicates a sense of strong correlation, where each subsequent step or development is influenced by the one that preceded it.
Additionally, "follows closely" can describe a high level of attention or scrutiny given to someone or something. It implies thorough observation and close examination, suggesting that one is closely monitoring, observing, or studying a subject with great attention to detail.
Overall, "follows closely" denotes a state of close proximity, immediate succession, or intimate connection, whether in physical, figurative, or observational contexts. It signifies a sense of continuous attention, adherence, or pursuit, emphasizing a close and consequential relationship between various elements or actions.
The phrase "follows closely" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two words: "follow" and "closely". However, the individual words have separate origins:
1. "Follow": The word "follow" comes from the Old English word "folgian", which means "to go after, pursue, accompany". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "fulgōną", derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "polk̑-", meaning "to swim, move".
2. "Closely": The word "closely" is derived from the Middle English word "clos", meaning "enclosed space" or "narrow passage". It is ultimately derived from the Latin word "clausus", which means "closed".