従う

• Reading: したがう
• Romaji: shitagau
• Kanji breakdown: 従 (juu/shitaga) — to follow, obey, comply
• Pronunciation: /ɕi.ta.ga.ɯ/

Meaning

To obey; to follow; to abide by rules or instructions.

A Group 1 (godan) verb conjugated with the う row. Takes the particle に to mark what is being followed (ルールに従う — to follow rules). Used for obeying laws, following instructions, complying with orders, and yielding to authority. More formal than ついていく (to follow along).

Examples

1. 交通ルールに従って運転してください。 Please drive in accordance with traffic rules.
2. 先生の指示に従って実験を行った。 We conducted the experiment following the teacher's instructions.
3. 法律に従わなければ罰せられる。 If you don't obey the law, you'll be punished.

Usage Guide

Context: rules, workplace, law

Tone: authoritative

Origin & History

The kanji 従 (juu/shitaga) combines 彳 (step) and 从 (to follow), expressing the idea of walking behind someone — obedience through following.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal