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pursue

A2
verb

Pronunciation

UK

  • /pəsjˈuː/

US

  • /pərˈsu/

Description

To pursue something means to go after it and keep at it over time. It may be a person, an animal, a goal, or a way of life. You can pursue a dream, pursue a career, or pursue more knowledge. A police officer may pursue a suspect, and a student may pursue a subject they love. In each case, the idea is not just wanting something, but continuing to move toward it.

The word often carries a sense of purpose and steady effort. Sometimes the action is physical, like chasing someone down the street. Sometimes it is more about life choices, like working toward success or trying to find peace and happiness. The meaning stays close to the same: you keep going after something that matters to you.

Examples

  1. 1

    Police chase

    The police pursued the motorbike through the narrow streets.

  2. 2

    Career goals

    After graduation, she pursued a career in journalism.

  3. 3

    Graduate study

    He went to Canada to pursue a master's degree.

    • Pattern

      pursue a degree

      study for it

  4. 4

    Personal dream

    She finally decided to pursue her dream of opening a small cafe.

  5. 5

    Business opportunities

    The company is pursuing new business opportunities overseas.

  6. 6

    Complaint process

    We chose not to pursue the complaint any further.

    • Pattern

      pursue a complaint

      continue taking action about it

  7. 7

    Investigation

    Detectives are pursuing several possible leads.

    • Pattern

      pursue a lead

      continue investigating it

  8. 8

    Unwanted attention

    He kept pursuing her even after she made it clear she wasn't interested.

    • Pattern

      pursue someone

      try to start a romantic relationship with them

Forms and spellings

4 forms open this card.

Main spelling

  • pursueverb

Forms

  • pursuing-ing formverb
  • pursuedpast tenseverb
  • pursuesverb