Accompany – Definition and Part of Speech
The verb accompany generally means to go along with someone or something as a companion or addition. It implies being present alongside another person or object, often in motion or during an activity. As a transitive verb, it requires a direct object, indicating the entity that is accompanied.
Core Synonyms (Table Format)
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Attend | To be present at an event or alongside someone. | “She will attend the meeting with her team.” | Formal/Professional |
| Escort | To accompany someone for protection or guidance. | “The security guard escorted him to his car.” | Formal/Safe, Protective |
| Join | To come together with others in a group setting. | “We joined them at the concert midway through.” | Casual/Informal |
| Tag along | To follow or accompany someone without invitation. | “He often likes to tag along on my bike rides.” | Informal/Casual |
Usage Notes
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Attend: This synonym is best suited for formal occasions where being physically present is significant. It’s commonly used in professional settings, such as meetings, conferences, or official functions.
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Escort: Used when there’s an element of protection or guidance involved in the accompanying act. In business or legal contexts, it implies a more responsible presence than merely being alongside someone.
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Join: More informal and versatile, “join” suggests becoming part of a group or activity. It’s frequently used in social settings, where inclusivity is key.
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Tag along: This phrase carries a casual tone, often used among friends or in situations without formal invitation. It implies that the person joining does not necessarily have an official reason for being there.
Common Pitfalls
One common confusion with “accompany” arises when choosing between synonyms based on context. For instance:
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Using attend instead of escort might downplay the protective aspect present in situations requiring supervision or guidance.
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Conversely, using tag along in a professional setting could appear unprofessional and inappropriate due to its casual connotation.
It’s important to select the synonym that matches the level of formality or nuance required by the context. Additionally, “accompany” can also mean to supplement something else (e.g., an idea with evidence), which might not align directly with any of the listed synonyms when used in a non-physical sense.
Final Recap
In summary, accompany has several useful synonyms:
- Attend: Formal presence at events or gatherings.
- Escort: Providing company for safety or guidance purposes.
- Join: Informally becoming part of a group or activity.
- Tag along: Following others in an informal manner.
Understanding the subtle differences among these synonyms helps enhance communication, ensuring that one chooses words appropriate to the context and desired tone. Practicing with these words in writing and conversation can refine vocabulary skills and improve clarity in various settings.