pursue
word
Definition
To follow someone or something in order to catch them, or to try to achieve, continue, or develop something such as a goal, career, or course of action.
Usage & Nuances
Often used in fairly formal or neutral contexts: 'pursue a degree', 'pursue a career', 'pursue legal action'. For physical chasing, it sounds more formal than 'chase'. Common learner pattern: 'pursue your dreams' is natural, but 'pursue happiness' is less common in everyday speech.
Example Sentences
The police pursued the car down the street.
basic
She wants to pursue a career in medicine.
basic
He decided to pursue his goal step by step.
basic
If you really want it, you should pursue it.
natural
She left her office job to pursue music full-time.
natural
They plan to pursue legal action if the company refuses to pay.
natural