Definition

Verb: - To pursue or follow someone or something with the intention of catching them. It describes the act of actively trying to reach, capture, or overtake a target that is moving away.

Usage

This verb is used to describe the action of pursuit. It is typically followed by a direct object (the person or thing being chased). It often implies speed and determination.

Examples

• The police officer decided to give chase to the speeding vehicle.
• When the cat saw the mouse, it immediately gave chase.
• The children gave chase after the ice cream truck.

Advanced Usage

• "to give hot chase": To pursue very closely and urgently.
  • The security guards gave hot chase to the shoplifter.
• The phrase can be used in both literal (physical) and figurative contexts, though the figurative use is less common.
  • The journalist gave chase to the story, following every lead. (Figurative: pursued the story diligently)

Variants and Related Words

• Chase (verb): The simpler, more common form with the same core meaning.
  • The dog chased the ball.
• Pursue (verb): A more formal synonym.
• Go after (phrasal verb): An informal synonym.

Synonyms

• Pursue
• Run after
• Go after
• Follow in pursuit

Related Phrasal Verbs / Constructions

• Chase down: To pursue and successfully catch or capture.
  • The reporter was determined to chase down the truth.
• Chase up: To try to obtain something or make someone do something more quickly.
  • I need to chase up that invoice from the supplier. (Note: This is a different, idiomatic meaning related to prompting action, not physical pursuit.)

Related Idioms

• In hot pursuit: Chasing someone or something very closely and determinedly.
  • The patrol car sped off in hot pursuit.
• Lead someone on a merry chase: To cause someone to pursue you in a lengthy, difficult, or confusing manner.
  • The suspect led the detectives on a merry chase through the city.

Verb

1. go after with the intent to catch
   • The policeman chased the mugger down the alley
   • the dog chased the rabbit