chase - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
chase Word Meanings
- to run after someone or something
- to pursue in order to catch
- to seek or search fervently
chase Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
chase Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/tʃeɪs/
US
/tʃeɪs/
chase Word Etymology
The word 'chase' comes from the Old French 'chacier' (to hunt or chase), derived from Latin 'captiare' (to catch). Imagine a dog chasing after a ball, eyes wide and tongue out, embodying the act of pursuit.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I tilt forward and move my feet, tracing the path of a moving silhouette. I keep my eyes on it, push a little harder, and adjust my pace as the road bends. Breath tightens as my muscles tense, and I turn when the turn comes, holding my rhythm until I close the gap. The act of chasing feels like more than distance—it's deciding to reach for something just beyond reach.
Real Context
Chase, as a verb, mainly means to run after someone or something in order to catch or seize them, or to pursue a goal with effort and determination. You chase after a thief, chase after the bus, or chase a dream, often implying persistence and urgency rather than a simple stroll. In everyday speech it commonly pairs with after (chase after), or with up (chase up an order) in British English. It can also mean search fervently, as in chasing clues. People sometimes confuse chase with pursue, but chase is more physical and immediate; pursue is broader, including long-term or strategic efforts. Note that chase can be a noun too.
Usage Reminders
- Use chase with after or up for emphasis on pursuit; avoid mixing with pursue in casual contexts; remember chase can be a noun; collisions of verb and noun meanings can confuse learners; practice with physical chasing and metaphorical chasing; check prepositions when using phrases like chase after a goal or chase up an order.
Common Misconceptions
- Chase is only physical; you can chase a dream, not just a person.
- Pursue and chase are always interchangeable in every context.
- Chase cannot be a noun; it has noun uses like 'a chase'.
- Chase always means catching instantly; sometimes it just means trying.
- Chase requires an object after: you always chase someone or something.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker learning English: Chase often implies a quick, urgent action and can be physical or metaphorical. Learners tend to overuse chase for long-term goals and confuse it with pursue. Pay attention to prepositions (chase after, chase up) and noun usage (a chase).
Learning Tips
- Practice with both physical chasing and chasing a goal to feel nuance.
- memorize collocations: chase after, chase up, chase down.
- Distinguish chase as urgent action vs pursue as long-term effort.
- Use chase as a noun: 'a chase' in appropriate contexts.
- Check pronounciation: /tʃeɪs/.
- Create mini scenarios to decide when to use chase vs pursue.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'chase'?
A.To retreat
B.To sleep
C.To follow or pursue someone or something
D.To swim
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is the word 'chase' used correctly?
A.The team chased the game and won.
B.He stayed still and didn't move a muscle during the chase.
C.The cat decided to nap after the chase.
D.She decided to chase her dreams and pursue her passion.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following words is most similar to 'chase'?
A.Escape
B.Sleep
C.Hide
D.Follow
Step 4: Opposite Words
What could be an opposite of 'chase'?
A.Retreat
B.Pursue
C.Capture
D.Search
Step 5: Mastery
How is the word 'chase' commonly used in real-life situations?
A.In sporting events such as races or competitions
B.In a game of hide and seek
C.In cooking or baking recipes
D.In police pursuits of criminals
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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