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Pursuit Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pursuit

[pərˈsuːt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

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?

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Word Description / Examples
pursuit

Typically used in the context of chasing or striving for a goal, achievement, or ambitious endeavor.

  • Her relentless pursuit of knowledge led her to enroll in numerous courses.
  • The pursuit of happiness is a fundamental right in many cultures.
quest

Often used in fictional or grandiose contexts, involving a long journey or mission, sometimes with a mythical or heroic element.

  • The hero embarked on a quest to find the legendary sword.
  • In her quest for truth, she uncovered several hidden secrets.
search

Used in a broad context, usually focusing on the act of looking for something, whether it be information, people, or objects.

  • He performed a thorough search of the library to find the book.
  • The search for the missing hiker lasted several days.
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.

  • The authorities launched a massive manhunt to capture the escaped convict.
  • They went on a treasure hunt through the mountains.

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.
Context #2 | Noun

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?

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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.

  • The detective was in pursuit of the suspect down the alley.
  • Her pursuit of higher education led her to new opportunities.
chase

Often used to describe a fast or active following, typically in a physical sense. Can be playful or serious.

  • The dog loves to chase the ball around the yard.
  • The police were involved in a high-speed chase on the highway.
race

Describes a speed contest between individuals, animals or vehicles. Also can metaphorically describe the urgency to complete something quickly.

  • He entered the marathon race with high hopes of winning.
  • It was a race against time to finish the project before the deadline.
competition

Refers to a contest or rivalry between individuals or groups to achieve a certain outcome. Used in sports, business, and similar domains.

  • She trained hard to win the swimming competition.
  • The company is facing stiff competition in the market.

Examples of usage

  • His pursuit of the opposing player was relentless.
  • She won the gold medal in the pursuit event.
Context #3 | Noun

in law enforcement

The act of following or chasing someone, especially as part of a police operation.

Synonyms

chase, pursuance.

Examples of usage

  • The pursuit of the criminal ended in a dramatic arrest.
  • The police initiated a pursuit to apprehend the suspect.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • The theme of pursuit often appears in classic literature, symbolizing the quest for knowledge or love.
  • In Melville's 'Moby Dick', Captain Ahab's relentless pursuit of the whale represents obsession and revenge.
  • Many fairy tales involve a pursuit, such as a hero chasing a villain or seeking a lost princess.

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that the act of pursuing goals can significantly impact happiness and motivation.
  • The 'pursuit of happiness' is a well-known concept highlighting the importance of striving towards personal fulfillment.
  • Pursuing intrinsic goals, like learning and relationships, is often linked to greater life satisfaction than chasing material rewards.

Pop Culture

  • The concept of pursuit is widely portrayed in film, particularly in action and adventure genres, where characters chase villains or treasure.
  • Video games often involve quests that revolve around the theme of pursuit, rewarding players for their efforts.
  • The TV show 'Chase' revolves around contestants being pursued by a professional 'Chaser' in thrilling game scenarios.

Science

  • In biology, pursuit behaviors can be observed in animals as they hunt for food or escape predators.
  • The study of pursuit in animals can provide insights into their survival strategies and adaptability.
  • Research in physics also uses the concept of pursuit to explain motion, where one object chases another, influencing dynamics.

Origin of 'pursuit'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'pursuit' comes from the Old French term 'poursuite', which means 'to follow closely'.
  • It has roots in the Latin word 'pursuitus', meaning 'the act of pursuing or following'.
  • The use of 'pursuit' as a noun in English dates back to the early 14th century.

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.

See also: pursuance, pursue, pursuer, pursuers, pursuing.

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.