Pursuit

Definition

Pursuit generally refers to the act of chasing, following, or striving after something or someone, or an activity or hobby followed with passion or dedication.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pərˈsut/
• Respelling: pər-SOOT (with "pər" as in "per" and "SOOT" as in "suit")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pəˈsjuːt/
• Respelling: pə-SYOOT (with "pə" as in "per" and "SYOOT" as in the sound in "cue")

In both dialects, the emphasis is placed on the second syllable, making "SOOT" or "SYOOT" the stressed part of the word.

Etymology

The term "pursuit" originates from the Old French word "poursuite", which means "to chase or follow". It is derived from the verb "poursuivre", with its roots in Latin "prosequi", where "pro-" means "forward" and "sequi" means "follow".

Derivatives

• Pursuer
• Pursuable
• Pursuance
• Pursuing
• Pursuitless

Synonyms

• Chase
• Quest
• Endeavor

Antonyms

• Retreat
• Disinterest
• Abandonment

Usage

"Pursuit" is often used to refer to an activity that one engages in regularly, especially for pleasure, or the act of trying to achieve a plan, activity, or situation, usually over a long period.

Related Terms

• Goal
• Hobby
• Passion

Detailed Definition

Noun

• The action of following or pursuing someone or something.
• Example: The pursuit of criminals by the police.

• An activity or hobby that someone engages in regularly and with passion or interest.
• Example: Painting is just one of her many pursuits.

• A way to achieve a particular result or to get something you want.
• Example: The pursuit of knowledge.