pursue
- 01 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.
Simple“The police officer had to pursue the suspect through the narrow streets.”
In context“The predator will often pursue its prey for several miles across the savannah before finally attempting a strike.”
UsageTakes a direct object representing the person or thing being followed.
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
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.
Simple“She decided to pursue her dream of becoming a professional pilot.”
In context“The government continues to pursue a policy of economic reform despite significant opposition from local industries.”
UsageCommonly used with abstract nouns like 'career', 'goal', 'dream', or 'policy'.
- 03 C1 Advanced
to take part in an activity or a hobby regularly.
to carry out or participate in a particular activity, interest, or profession.
Simple“In his free time, he likes to pursue his interest in ancient history.”
In context“The researcher has spent over a decade pursuing this specific line of inquiry into molecular biology.”
UsageOften used in academic or professional contexts to describe ongoing work or study.
- 04 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.
Simple“The hikers chose to pursue the trail that led toward the waterfall.”
In context“The investigation will pursue every possible lead until the missing documents are recovered.”
Usage pursue true · actively pursue · pursued a career
“Washington has pursued its own efforts to secure the reopening.”
“That case is no longer being pursued by the Office of Civil Rights as of last year.”
From Middle English pursuen, from Anglo-Norman pursure, poursuire etc., from Latin prōsequor (though influenced by persequor). Doublet of prosecute.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.