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pursue

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /pərˈsuː/

KK: /pɚˈsu/

intransitive verb
Definition

To follow someone or something in order to catch or reach them; to continue with an effort towards a goal.


Example

She decided to pursue her dream of becoming a doctor.


Tense Forms

Past: pursued

Past Participle: pursued


Conversation
Sloth A
I've decided to pursue my passion for photography more seriously.
Sloth B
That sounds amazing! What kind of photography do you want to focus on?
Sloth A
I think I'll pursue landscapes and nature shots, they really inspire me.
Sloth B
Great choice! I can't wait to see the pictures you take.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
chase
follow
seek
Antonyms
flee
avoid
shun
transitive verb
Definition

To follow someone or something in order to catch or achieve it; to continue doing something over time.


Example

She decided to pursue a career in medicine after finishing her studies.


Tense Forms

Past: pursued

Past Participle: pursued


Conversation
Sloth A
I've decided to pursue my passion for painting this year.
Sloth B
That sounds amazing! What kind of painting are you interested in?
Sloth A
I'm thinking about landscape painting, especially nature scenes.
Root Explanation

Pursue → It is formed from "pur-" (meaning forward) and "sequi" (meaning to follow). The word "pursue" means to follow something forward or to chase after it.

Memory Tip

Think of moving 'forward' ('pur-') to 'follow' ('sequi') something — that's why pursue means to chase after something.

Visually Confused Words
repursue
unpursued
puru
pure
prue
Is this page helpful?
Sloth B
That's a great choice! I can't wait to see what you create.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
chase
follow
seek
Antonyms
abandon
ignore
shun