befolgen
Translation
to follow, to obey, to comply with
Examples
Sie müssen die Regeln befolgen.
You must follow the rules.
Er befolgte den Rat seines Arztes.
He followed his doctor's advice.
Grammar Patterns
((et4)) to follow, obey ((sth.)) You must befolgen the instructions.
Similar Words
einhalten (to adhere to), gehorchen (to obey)
Etymology
Prefix 'be-' + 'folgen' (to follow). The 'be-' prefix often makes a verb transitive, so it takes a direct object (a rule, advice).
Memory Tips
Unlike 'folgen' which often takes the dative case, 'befolgen' always takes the accusative case. Think of it as 'to follow something'.