Fact Check: Are as follows?

The Claim: "Are as follows?"

Introduction

The phrase "are as follows" is often used in English to introduce a list or set of items that are about to be detailed. This claim raises questions about the correct usage of this phrase compared to similar expressions like "are the following." Understanding the nuances of these phrases can clarify their proper contexts and grammatical correctness.

What We Know

Definition and Usage: The phrase "are as follows" is typically used to introduce a list or explanation. It is considered grammatically correct and is often employed in formal writing, including legal and technical documents 3 10.
Comparison with Similar Phrases: The phrase "are the following" can also be used to introduce lists, but it is often seen as less formal than "are as follows." Some sources argue that "as follows" is preferred after the verb "to be," while "the following" is better suited after a noun 4 8.
Grammatical Rules: According to grammar guides, "as follows" is used cataphorically, meaning it refers forward to the items that will be listed. This construction is not altered by the plurality of the subject 4.
Common Misunderstandings: There is some confusion among English learners about when to use "as follows" versus "the following." Some educational resources clarify that both can be correct, but they serve slightly different purposes in writing 5 6.

Analysis

The sources available provide a range of insights into the usage of "are as follows."

Credibility of Sources:
- The ASA Style Guide 1 and MLA In-Text Citations 2 are authoritative resources for academic writing, making them reliable for understanding citation formats and formal writing conventions.
- Grammarphobia 4 and Grammarhow 7 are well-regarded grammar resources that provide clear explanations of usage, although they may not have the same level of academic rigor as style guides.
- TextRanch 6 and Study.com 5 offer practical examples and explanations, but their reliability can vary since they are not peer-reviewed.
Potential Bias: Some sources may have a bias towards traditional grammar rules, which could influence their interpretation of the phrases. For instance, educational platforms may emphasize formal usage over colloquial variations.
Methodological Concerns: The analysis of these phrases relies heavily on examples and usage rather than empirical studies. While the examples provided are illustrative, they do not constitute a comprehensive linguistic analysis.
Contradicting Views: While most sources agree on the correctness of "are as follows," there is some debate regarding the preference for one phrase over the other in different contexts. This suggests that usage may vary based on regional or contextual factors.

Conclusion

Verdict: True

The phrase "are as follows" is indeed a grammatically correct expression used to introduce lists or explanations in English. Key evidence supporting this conclusion includes authoritative grammar guides that confirm its usage in formal writing contexts and the distinction made between "are as follows" and "are the following," with the former being preferred in more formal settings.

However, it is important to note that while "are as follows" is widely accepted, there is some debate regarding the context in which each phrase is used, indicating that preferences may vary based on regional or stylistic factors. Additionally, the analysis is based on usage examples rather than empirical linguistic studies, which limits the comprehensiveness of the conclusions drawn.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information themselves and consider the nuances of language usage, as context can significantly influence the appropriateness of different expressions.