Pursue: meaning, definitions and examples

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pursue

 

[pərˈsjuː ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

to follow or chase

To follow someone or something, usually to try to catch him, her, or it. To try to achieve something, such as a plan, activity, or situation. To try to discover information about something.

Synonyms

chase, follow, seek.

Examples of usage

  • He decided to pursue a career in music.
  • She pursued her dream of becoming a doctor.
  • The police are pursuing the suspect on foot.
Context #2 | Verb

to engage in

To take part in an activity or course of action. To engage in a particular activity or course of action.

Synonyms

engage in, participate in, take part in.

Examples of usage

  • He pursued his hobby of photography in his free time.
  • She pursued her passion for cooking by attending culinary school.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'pursuere', meaning 'to follow after'.
  • In Middle English, it evolved into 'persuen', showing how the word has changed over time.
  • It originally had similar meanings of following and seeking, which are still relevant today.

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'pursue your dreams' is popular in motivational talks and self-help books.
  • In movies, characters often go on adventures to pursue a goal, highlighting determination.
  • Popular songs often have themes of pursuing love or life goals, making the word relatable to many.

Psychology

  • Pursuing goals can lead to greater happiness and fulfillment, according to psychological studies.
  • People who actively pursue their interests have shown increased cognitive engagement and motivation.
  • The 'pursuit of happiness' is a significant concept in psychology, emphasizing personal growth.

Sports

  • In sports, the idea of pursuit is often depicted in events like chases in track and field or car racing.
  • Athletes frequently pursue records or titles, showcasing the competitive spirit associated with the term.
  • Team sports often involve strategies to pursue victory against opponents, making teamwork essential.

Literature

  • Many literary works explore characters’ journeys as they pursue their ambitions or desires.
  • In classic literature, the pursuit of unattainable goals often serves as a central theme.
  • Poets often use the idea of pursuit to illustrate the challenges of longing or aspiration.

Translations

Translations of the word "pursue" in other languages:

🇵🇹 perseguir

🇮🇳 पीछा करना (पीछा करना)

🇩🇪 verfolgen

🇮🇩 mengejar

🇺🇦 переслідувати

🇵🇱 ścigać

🇯🇵 追う (おう)

🇫🇷 poursuivre

🇪🇸 perseguir

🇹🇷 kovalamak

🇰🇷 추구하다 (추구하다)

🇸🇦 ملاحقة (ملاحقة)

🇨🇿 sledovat

🇸🇰 prenasledovať

🇨🇳 追求 (zhuīqiú)

🇸🇮 zasledovati

🇮🇸 elta

🇰🇿 қуу

🇬🇪 დევნა (დევნა)

🇦🇿 təqib etmək

🇲🇽 perseguir

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,866, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.