Meaning
跟不上 is a compound directional verb meaning to be unable to keep pace with someone or something. It combines 跟 (to follow) with the potential complement 不上 (unable to achieve the goal of reaching/catching up). It's commonly used when someone cannot match the speed, progress, or level of others, whether physically, mentally, or in terms of understanding.
Usage
This phrase is used in both literal contexts (like running or walking) and figurative ones (like understanding a lecture, keeping up with trends, or matching someone's skill level). It's neutral in register and very common in everyday speech. Often followed by the person or thing one cannot keep up with, using the pattern 跟不上 + object.
Examples
- 01老师讲得太快了，我跟不上。, .The teacher is speaking too fast, I can't keep up.
- 02他走得太快，我跟不上他的脚步。, .He's walking too fast, I can't keep up with his pace.
Characters
Common collocations
- 跟不上时代can't keep up with the times
- 跟不上节奏can't keep up with the pace/rhythm
- 跟不上进度can't keep up with the progress/schedule
- 跟不上形势can't keep up with the situation/trend
Antonyms
Origin
This is a result complement structure where 跟 (follow) combines with the potential complement 不上 (cannot reach/catch up). The 不 negates the possibility of achieving the directional goal indicated by 上.