keep going after and working toward

pursue

verb|/pɚˈsuː/

To continue working toward a goal or opportunity

Examples

In a meeting

We've decided to pursue the partnership with the European distributor.

Over coffee

I'm going to pursue that job opportunity in Seattle.

Why this word

follow

pursue implies actively chasing or striving toward a goal with determination, while follow is more passive

seek

pursue suggests ongoing, sustained effort toward something, while seek is more about searching or looking for

chase

pursue has a more purposeful, strategic quality suitable for goals or careers, while chase is more impulsive or physical

Usage tip

Implies active, ongoing effort rather than passive waiting; shows commitment to a direction

Etymology

Latin 'prosequi' from 'pro-' (forward) + 'sequi' (to follow)

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