Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Chase Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🏃
Add to dictionary

chase

[tʃeɪs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

in pursuit

To follow someone or something in order to catch them, often as part of a game or sport. It can also refer to the act of pursuing someone or something in order to capture or overtake them.

Synonyms

follow, hunt, pursue.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
chase

This word is commonly used when someone or something is trying to catch up with someone or something else, often in a playful or urgent manner.

  • The dog chased the ball across the yard
  • The police chased the suspect through the streets
pursue

Often used in more formal or serious situations where there is a deliberate and sustained effort to reach a goal or capture someone/something over time.

  • She pursued her dream of becoming a doctor
  • The company decided to pursue legal action against the former employee
follow

Used when someone or something is going after another, usually at a safe distance, without implying a necessity to catch up. It can also imply imitation or adherence.

  • She followed the tour guide through the museum
  • He follows his favorite actor on social media
hunt

Usually refers to searching for animals to catch or kill them, often for food or sport, but can also imply a search for something in a thorough and determined way.

  • They went into the woods to hunt deer
  • She hunted for a new job for months

Examples of usage

  • He chased the thief down the street.
  • The dog chased the cat around the garden.
  • She chased her dreams and never gave up.
Context #2 | Noun

game or sport

A period of time spent pursuing a target, such as in a game or sport. It can also refer to the act of chasing or pursuing someone or something.

Synonyms

hunt, pursuance, pursuit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
chase

Used when someone or something is quickly following another to catch them. Often related to physical movement.

  • The cops chased the thief down the alley
  • The cat chased the mouse around the house
pursuit

Can be used in a wide range of contexts, from following someone physically to striving to achieve a goal or dream.

  • The police were in hot pursuit of the suspect
  • Her pursuit of a career in medicine is commendable
hunt

Generally used when searching for animals with the intention to catch or kill them. It can also be used metaphorically for searching something persistently.

  • They went to the forest to hunt deer
  • She's been hunting for a new job for months
pursuance

A formal term often used in legal or professional contexts, meaning the act of following or pursuing something, such as a goal or task.

  • In pursuance of his duties, he filed the report
  • The company is dedicated to the pursuance of excellence

Examples of usage

  • He was in the lead for the entire chase.
  • The police car chase scene was intense.
  • The chase for the championship title was fierce.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Sports

  • Chase can refer to competitive activities like chasing in track and field, where athletes aim to catch their competitors.
  • In motorsports, 'chase' is used to describe a type of race strategy where drivers try to catch the leader.

Pop Culture

  • The popular video game series 'Grand Theft Auto' features chase missions where players escape or pursue in high-speed vehicles.
  • Many action movies often have intense chase scenes that keep viewers at the edge of their seats, showcasing the thrill of pursuit.

Psychology

  • Pursuits, whether in games or life, can release adrenaline, enhancing feelings of excitement and motivation for many.
  • Chasing goals or dreams is often linked to personal growth and can have a positive psychological impact on individuals.

Literature

  • Chase scenes in literature often symbolize a character's struggle or desire, highlighting their determination to achieve something.
  • Classic novels often feature metaphorical chases, representing the human experience of yearning and ambition.

Origin of 'chase'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'chase' comes from the Old French term 'chacier', which means 'to hunt'.
  • It evolved from the Latin word 'captiare', expressing the idea of catching or seizing something.

The word 'chase' originated from the Middle English word 'chasen', which means 'to hunt'. It has its roots in Old French and Latin. The concept of chasing or pursuing has been a part of human history for centuries, dating back to hunting and gathering societies. Over time, the word has evolved to encompass not just physical pursuit, but also metaphorical pursuits such as chasing dreams or goals.

See also: chaser, chasing.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,854 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.