chase after

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Thân thiện
Definition
  1. Verb:
    • To follow rapidly with the intent to catch or capture: The primary meaning involves moving quickly behind someone or something to apprehend or reach them.
    • To pursue someone with romantic or sexual interest: A figurative meaning describing persistent romantic pursuit.
Usage and Examples

  • Verb (Literal Pursuit):

    • The police officer had to chase after the suspect on foot.
    • Our dog loves to chase after squirrels in the park.

  • Verb (Romantic Pursuit):

    • He spent months chasing after her, but she wasn't interested.
    • She grew tired of men who would only chase after her for her looks.
Advanced Usage
  • The phrase often implies effort, speed, and determination in the pursuit, whether literal or figurative.
  • It can sometimes carry a slightly informal or colloquial tone, especially in the romantic sense.
Variants and Related Words
  • Chase (verb): The core verb, often used interchangeably with "chase after," though "chase" can be more direct. (e.g., )
  • Pursue (verb): A more formal synonym for both literal and figurative chasing. (e.g., , )
  • Give chase (phrase): A set phrase meaning to begin chasing. (e.g., )
Synonyms
  • Run after: Very close in meaning, often used for literal pursuit.
  • Follow in hot pursuit: Emphasizes immediacy and closeness in the chase.
  • Woo or Court: More specific synonyms for the romantic sense of "chase after."
Related Phrasal Verbs
  • Chase down: To pursue and successfully catch or obtain.
    • The reporter chased down the lead until she found the truth.
  • Chase up: To pursue in order to obtain something needed, like information or a payment.
    • I need to chase up that invoice from the client.
Related Idioms
  • A wild goose chase: A futile pursuit or search for something unattainable.
    • Looking for a cheap apartment in that neighborhood is a wild goose chase.
  • Chase rainbows: To pursue unrealistic goals or dreams.
    • He's always chasing rainbows instead of focusing on a practical career.
Verb
  1. go after with the intent to catch
    • The policeman chased the mugger down the alley
    • the dog chased the rabbit
  2. pursue someone sexually or romantically

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