# go after

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/go-after
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to try to catch someone or to try to get something that you want very much.

For teachers: to pursue an objective or person; can function as a synonym for 'chase' or 'strive for' depending on the context.

## Examples

- The police had to go after the thief.
- She decided to go after the promotion even though the competition was very tough.
- The federal agency announced its intention to go after major corporations that have been systematically evading environmental regulations for decades.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He went the cat after." but "He went after the cat." — this phrasal verb is inseparable; the object must come after the particle 'after'.

## Usage notes

- always followed by an object, which can be a person, a goal, or a prize.
- Teaching tip: help students distinguish between the physical sense of chasing someone and the metaphorical sense of pursuing a career goal or a dream.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.