noun / verb HSK 5
Traditional 隨從
suí cóng
entourage · retinue · follower · to follow · to accompany

Meaning

随从 refers to people who accompany and serve someone of importance, like bodyguards, attendants, or assistants who follow their leader. As a noun, it means 'entourage' or 'retinue.' As a verb (less common), it means to follow and serve someone.

Usage

Primarily used as a noun in formal or literary contexts to describe the attendants of officials, dignitaries, or important figures. Common in historical dramas, news about political figures, or formal writing. The tone is relatively formal and not used for casual friends or companions.

Examples

  1. 01
    总统带着一群随从来到了会场。
    Zǒngtǒng dài zhe qún suí cóng lái dào le huì chǎng.
    The president arrived at the venue with a group of entourage members.
  2. 02
    古代的皇帝出行时总有许多随从保护。
    Gǔdài de huángdì chūxíng shí zǒng yǒu xǔduō suí cóng bǎohù.
    Ancient emperors always had many attendants for protection when traveling.

Characters

Measure words

  • míng三名随从
  • 几个随从

Common collocations

  • 随从人员
    suí cóng rén yuán
    entourage members
  • 一群随从
    qún suí cóng
    a group of attendants
  • 带着随从
    dài zhe suí cóng
    accompanied by entourage

Antonyms

Origin

Compound of 随 (to follow) and 从 (to follow/accompany), creating a reinforced meaning of following or those who follow.

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