stern chase

A small sailboat pursues another sailboat in a stern chase across the open sea.

Definition

Stern chase (noun, nautical): A pursuit in which one vessel follows directly behind another, typically in a straight line. The term specifically refers to a chase where the pursuing ship is directly astern (behind) the target, allowing little room for evasive manoeuvres.

Usage Examples

• (A direct pursuit from behind.)
• (The nature of this type of pursuit.)
• (A tactical decision to pursue from directly behind.)

Advanced Usage

• "In a stern chase": Used to describe a situation where two vessels are aligned in a straight line, one chasing the other.

  • The two warships were in a stern chase across the open sea. (They were aligned one behind the other in pursuit.)

• "Stern chase is a long chase": An old nautical proverb meaning that a direct pursuit from behind often takes a long time because the relative speeds are similar.

  • The admiral knew that a stern chase is a long chase, so he prepared for a lengthy engagement. (Acknowledging the slow nature of such a pursuit.)

Variants and Related Words

• Stern (noun): The rear part of a ship or boat.

  • The crew gathered at the stern to watch the pursuing vessel. (The back of the ship.)

• Chase (noun): The act of pursuing someone or something.

  • The chase lasted all night before the fugitive was caught. (The pursuit itself.)

Synonyms

• Tail chase: A pursuit where one vehicle follows directly behind another (often used in aviation or automotive contexts).
• Direct pursuit: A straightforward chase without detours or flanking.

Related Idioms

• "A stern chase and a long chase": An idiomatic expression emphasizing the tediousness of a straight-line pursuit.
  • The detective knew it would be a stern chase and a long chase to catch the suspect. (A difficult and prolonged pursuit.)