Pursuit: meaning, definitions and examples
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pursuit
[ pərˈsuːt ]
in life
The act of chasing or seeking something eagerly or actively. It involves the effort to attain a goal, whether it is physical or abstract.
Synonyms
hunt, quest, search.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
pursuit |
Typically used in the context of chasing or striving for a goal, achievement, or ambitious endeavor.
|
quest |
Often used in fictional or grandiose contexts, involving a long journey or mission, sometimes with a mythical or heroic element.
|
search |
Used in a broad context, usually focusing on the act of looking for something, whether it be information, people, or objects.
|
hunt |
Commonly used when seeking something with the intent to capture or find, often in a physical or literal sense, like looking for animals, criminals, or specific items.
|
Examples of usage
- She was dedicated to her pursuit of happiness.
- His pursuit of knowledge led him to earn multiple degrees.
- I admire her pursuit of excellence in everything she does.
in sports
The act of trying to catch or defeat someone or something, typically in a competitive activity such as a race or game.
Synonyms
chase, competition, race.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
pursuit |
Used to describe the act of following or going after someone or something. Can also refer to striving towards a goal.
|
chase |
Often used to describe a fast or active following, typically in a physical sense. Can be playful or serious.
|
race |
Describes a speed contest between individuals, animals or vehicles. Also can metaphorically describe the urgency to complete something quickly.
|
competition |
Refers to a contest or rivalry between individuals or groups to achieve a certain outcome. Used in sports, business, and similar domains.
|
Examples of usage
- His pursuit of the opposing player was relentless.
- She won the gold medal in the pursuit event.
Translations
Translations of the word "pursuit" in other languages:
🇵🇹 perseguição
🇮🇳 पीछा
🇩🇪 Verfolgung
🇮🇩 pengejaran
🇺🇦 переслідування
🇵🇱 pościg
🇯🇵 追跡 (ついせき)
🇫🇷 poursuite
🇪🇸 persecución
🇹🇷 takip
🇰🇷 추격 (chugyeok)
🇸🇦 مطاردة
🇨🇿 pronásledování
🇸🇰 prenasledovanie
🇨🇳 追逐 (zhuīzhú)
🇸🇮 preganjanje
🇮🇸 eftirför
🇰🇿 қуғындау
🇬🇪 დევნა
🇦🇿 təqib
🇲🇽 persecución
Etymology
The word 'pursuit' originated from the Old French word 'poursuite', which came from the verb 'poursuivre' meaning 'to chase, pursue'. The term has been used in English since the late 14th century primarily in the context of hunting and chasing. Over time, it expanded to encompass various aspects of seeking or chasing something actively, whether it be a goal, a target, or an individual. 'Pursuit' embodies the essence of determination and effort in the journey towards achieving something desired.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #4,454, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.
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- 4451 monitor
- 4452 submission
- 4453 fabric
- 4454 pursuit
- 4455 motive
- 4456 pipes
- 4457 reproduction
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