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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing "follow" or "comply" with 从 (cóng) as a verb

    Actions & Events
    Manner & Method

    Structure

    Subject + 从 + Object

    Explanation

    从 (cóng) as a verb means "to follow" or "to comply with." This usage is distinct from the far more common preposition 从 meaning "from." The verbal sense appears in classical-influenced expressions and formal compounds like 服从 (obey) and 从事 (engage in).

    Examples

    • 士兵必须服从命令。

      Shìbīng bìxū fúcóng mìnglìng.

      Soldiers must obey orders.

    • 他从事教育工作已经二十年了。

      Tā cóngshì jiàoyù gōngzuò yǐjīng èrshí nián le.

      He has been working in education for twenty years.

    • 我们应该遵从专家的建议。

      Wǒmen yīnggāi zūncóng zhuānjiā de jiànyì.

      We should follow the experts' advice.

    Expressing "follow" or "comply" with 从 (cóng) as a verb | Chinese Grammar