What does pursuit mean?
Pursuit refers to the act of chasing someone or something, especially when someone is trying to catch another person, an animal, or a vehicle. It is also a formal word for an activity, interest, or goal that someone follows with sustained effort. In this broader sense, phrases such as “the pursuit of happiness” and “the pursuit of knowledge” suggest an active search for something valuable, though not necessarily its attainment. The word commonly appears in reports of crime or accidents, as in “a high-speed pursuit,” and in discussions of education, career, and personal interests. Unlike “search,” which can be brief or unsuccessful, “pursuit” often implies continued effort. Unlike “quest,” it can also have a more neutral tone, particularly when describing a professional or intellectual activity. Overall, it is a useful word for expressing both literal pursuit and figurative determination.
The act of trying to catch, follow, or catch up with someone or something.
"The officers gave up the pursuit when the suspect reached the border."
Often used in journalism, particularly for a chase involving police, vehicles, or suspects.
An activity, goal, or interest that someone devotes time and effort to.
"The study of astronomy was a lifelong pursuit for the professor."
This meaning is formal and commonly occurs in fixed expressions such as “the pursuit of happiness.”
Used for separate activities, goals, or interests, as well as for multiple instances of chasing or following.
"Her primary pursuits are sailing, photography, and voluntary work."
The word pursuit comes from the Latin prosequi, literally “to follow onward,” and can mean either chasing a target or following an ambition.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pursuit come from?
“Pursuit” comes from Old French pursuite, derived from Latin prosequi, meaning “to follow onward.” Latin prosequi was formed from pro-, meaning “forward” or “onward,” and sequi, meaning “to follow.” The word entered Middle English in the sense of chasing or following, and later developed the broader meaning of an activity or goal pursued.
How pursuit is actually used
In the sense of an activity or goal, “pursuit” is usually formal and often suggests sustained effort, ambition, or interest. In the literal sense of chasing, it is common in journalism and in phrases such as “in pursuit.”
Easily confused with pursuit
Pursuit means an activity or effort aimed at achieving something or catching someone, whereas peruse means to read or examine something carefully.