# pursuit

/pɝˈsut/ (US) · /pəsˈuːt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/pursuit
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. chasing or following

noun · CEFR B2

the act of chasing someone or something, often to catch them or reach a goal.

For teachers: the act of following or chasing someone or something in order to catch, overtake, or acquire them.

- The police were in hot pursuit of the stolen car through the city streets.
- The documentary explores the relentless pursuit of scientific truth, even when the evidence contradicts long-held beliefs.

Usage: Often used in the phrase 'in pursuit of'.

### 2. a hobby or activity

noun · CEFR B2

an activity, such as a hobby or a job, that you spend a lot of time doing.

For teachers: an activity, such as a hobby, interest, or profession, to which one devotes time and energy.

- Gardening is a relaxing pursuit for many people during the summer.
- The university encourages students to engage in various intellectual and athletic pursuits outside of their formal degree requirements.

### 3. cycling race

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a type of race in track cycling where two riders or teams start on opposite sides and try to catch each other.

For teachers: a track cycling event where opponents start at different points on the track and attempt to overtake one another.

- The national team won a gold medal in the team pursuit event.
- In the individual pursuit, the cyclist must maintain a precise pace to catch their opponent before the final lap.

## Examples

- The police were in pursuit of the stolen car.
- She spent her weekends in the pursuit of outdoor hobbies like hiking and birdwatching.
- The relentless pursuit of profit at the expense of environmental safety eventually led to a series of costly legal battles for the corporation.

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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.