Chase: meaning, definitions and examples

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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