Stalking: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is obsessively following or watching another person, often secretly, causing the person to feel unsafe. This word has a negative connotation.

• She found out that someone was stalking her by checking her social media accounts
• The celebrity filed for a restraining order due to stalking

Often used in a neutral or positive context when someone is actively trying to achieve a goal, catch someone, or follow a path with determination.

• She has been pursuing her dream of becoming a doctor for years
• The police were pursuing the suspect through the city

Typically used in a neutral context when someone is moving behind another person or thing, often in the same direction or path.

• The dog was following its owner down the street
• The car has been following the truck for several miles

This word is used when someone is repeatedly annoying or threatening another person in a way that causes distress or harm. It has a strong negative connotation.

• Employees reported that their colleague has been harassing them with constant rude comments
• Online bullying is a form of harassing

Use 'stalking' when someone follows or watches another person persistently, often in a way that makes the other person feel unsafe. This word has a strong negative connotation.

• She felt uneasy because she thought someone was stalking her every day after work

'Harassment' refers to aggressive pressure or intimidation, often involving repeated behavior that is unwelcome and unwanted. This word is used in legal and social contexts to describe unwelcome actions.

• The company has a strict policy against harassment in the workplace

Use 'surveillance' in a formal or legal context to describe the close observation of a person or group, usually by authorities such as the police. It is neutral but can carry a negative sense depending on the context.

• The suspect was under surveillance by the police for weeks

'Tracking' is used when monitoring the location or movement of someone or something over time. It can be neutral and is often used in technology-related contexts.

• The app provides real-time tracking of your package