What does "pursue" mean?

1. (to chase) to follow someone or something quickly in order to catch them. 2. (to seek a goal) to try to achieve something, like a dream or a plan, over a long time. 3. (to engage in an activity) to take part in an activity or a hobby regularly. 4. (to follow a path) to follow a specific route or way of doing something.

How do you use "pursue"?

Takes a direct object representing the person or thing being followed. Commonly used with abstract nouns like 'career', 'goal', 'dream', or 'policy'. Often used in academic or professional contexts to describe ongoing work or study.

pursue

US //pɝˈsu// UK //pəsjˈuː// pur·sue

1 to chase (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

to follow someone or something quickly in order to catch them.

to follow urgently with the intent to capture, overtake, or harm.

Example

The police officer had to pursue the suspect through the narrow streets.

Example

The predator will often pursue its prey for several miles across the savannah before finally attempting a strike.

Usage

Takes a direct object representing the person or thing being followed.
- flee
- retreat
2 to seek a goal (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

to try to achieve something, like a dream or a plan, over a long time.

to strive to attain or accomplish a specific objective or ambition.

Example

She decided to pursue her dream of becoming a professional pilot.

Example

The government continues to pursue a policy of economic reform despite significant opposition from local industries.

Usage

Commonly used with abstract nouns like 'career', 'goal', 'dream', or 'policy'.
- seek
- strive for
- target
- abandon
- give up

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3 to engage in an activity (v.)
C1 Advanced Formal

to take part in an activity or a hobby regularly.

to carry out or participate in a particular activity, interest, or profession.

Example

In his free time, he likes to pursue his interest in ancient history.

Example

The researcher has spent over a decade pursuing this specific line of inquiry into molecular biology.

Usage

Often used in academic or professional contexts to describe ongoing work or study.
- practice
- conduct
- engage in
- neglect
- quit
4 to follow a path (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

to follow a specific route or way of doing something.

to follow or travel along a particular route, course, or path of action.

Example

The hikers chose to pursue the trail that led toward the waterfall.

Example

The investigation will pursue every possible lead until the missing documents are recovered.
- follow
- traverse
- stray
- deviate

Origin

From Middle English pursuen, from Anglo-Norman pursure, poursuire etc., from Latin prōsequor (though influenced by persequor). Doublet of prosecute.