follow through

verb

followed through; following through; follows through

intransitive verb

1

: to continue a stroke or motion to the end of its arc

2

: to press on in an activity or process especially to a conclusion

Synonyms of follow through

• fulfill
• perform
• accomplish
• achieve
• execute
• go through
• do
• put through
• carry out
• make
• implement

Examples of follow through in a Sentence

you said you would put all of the files in order, but you didn't follow through with it

Recent Examples on the Web

Your steady approach helps everyone feel safe enough to agree on terms, then follow through today at a pace that respects both schedules. —Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 29 May 2026

The union has a demonstrable track record of following through on its threats to strike. —Adam Crafton, New York Times, 29 May 2026

This newsroom-wide project brings fast facts as stories unfold — making sure our local officials and institutions are telling the truth, serving our communities well and following through on their promises. —Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 29 May 2026

Even if that team follows through on its plans to head to Las Vegas in another year or two and MLB expansion doesn’t happen, interest could remain in the region for pro sports. —Graham Womack, Sacbee.com, 28 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for follow through

• amadou
• avenue
• ballyhoo
• baraboo
• barbecue
• barbeque
• bugaboo
• cabildo
• caribou
• cockatoo
• detinue
• devalue

Kids Definition

follow through

verb

1

: to complete a stroke or swing

2

: to continue in an activity or process especially to a conclusion

follow through with a study

follow-through

ˈfäl-ō-ˌthrü, 

ˌfäl-ō-ˈthrü, 

-ə-

noun