English Reference
verb · noun

chase

v. · n.
US /ˈtʃeɪs/ UK /tʃˈeɪs/ chase UK spelling chases

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    v.to run after someone or something to catch them.

    v.to follow rapidly in order to catch or overtake. Transitive, requiring a direct object.

    Simple

    The dog loves to chase squirrels in the park every morning.

    In context

    The police cruiser chased the suspect through narrow alleyways before finally cornering the vehicle near the docks.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    v.to drink something mild, like water or beer, immediately after a strong alcoholic drink.

    v.to consume a milder beverage immediately after a shot of spirits to mitigate the harshness.

    Simple

    He drank a shot of tequila and chased it with a sip of lime juice.

    In context

    In many casual settings, patrons prefer to chase potent whiskey shots with a light lager to cleanse the palate.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency Technical

    v.to decorate a metal surface by cutting or hitting it with tools.

    v.to ornament a metal surface by embossing or engraving with hammer and tools.

    Simple

    The artist used a small hammer to chase a pattern into the silver bowl.

    In context

    The silversmith spent weeks chasing intricate floral motifs into the ceremonial shield, ensuring every line was perfectly symmetrical.

    engraveemboss
  4. 04 B1 Intermediate

    n.the act of following someone or something to catch them.

    n.the act of pursuing someone or something; a pursuit or hunt.

    Simple

    The high-speed chase ended safely when the driver stopped the car.

    In context

    The documentary captured the thrilling chase between the cheetah and the gazelle across the vast African savannah.

  5. 05 C1 Advanced Technical Music

    n.a part of a jazz song where musicians take turns playing short solos.

    n.a series of short, improvised solos played by different musicians in alternation.

    Simple

    The trumpet and saxophone players had an exciting chase during the final song.

    In context

    The highlight of the set was a spirited chase between the two tenor saxophonists, each trying to outdo the other's melodic complexity.

    trading fours
  6. 06 C1 Advanced Technical

    n.a slot or channel cut into a wall to hide pipes or wires.

    n.a groove or trench cut into a masonry wall to accommodate electrical conduit or plumbing.

    Simple

    The electrician cut a chase in the brickwork to hide the new cables.

    In context

    Before the plastering could begin, the contractor had to ensure every chase was deep enough to house the heavy-duty drainage pipes.

  7. 07 C2 Proficiency ArchaicTechnical Technical

    n.a metal frame used to hold rows of type for printing.

    n.a rectangular iron or steel frame in which composed type is secured for printing.

    Simple

    The printer locked the letters into the chase before starting the press.

    In context

    Traditional letterpress printing requires the compositor to carefully justify the type within the chase to prevent any movement during the run.

Perhaps the porpoise had chased a fish to the surface and followed it into the air.

Smithsonian Magazine· 14 Aug 2026

Or by prioritising cleaner electricity while progress on heating and transport lags behind, is the government chasing the wrong targets?

BBC News· 15 Apr 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated