Words / B1

CHAYS/tʃeɪs/

To chase is to run after someone or something in order to catch them: chase a thief; chase the ball; a car chase. Pursue is more formal and can be long-term (pursue a career); follow may be slower and quieter. Chase up a payment is useful office English (remind someone). Do not use chase for a calm walk behind a friend — that is follow.

Meaning

To run after someone or something in order to catch them.

Examples

• “The dog chased the ball across the park.”
• “Police chased the stolen van onto the motorway.”
• “Please chase up the invoice if it has not arrived by Friday.”

Good to know

chase someone / a ball. a car chase. Office: chase up a payment. Formal/long-term: pursue. Quieter: follow.

Near in meaning

pursue

New