close pursuit

USAGE SUMMARY

"close pursuit" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe a situation where someone is following another person closely, often in a context of chasing or tracking. For example: "The detective was in close pursuit of the suspect through the crowded streets." Alternative expressions include "hot on the trail" and "in hot pursuit."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

"I wouldn't consider that a close pursuit.

The New York Times

The press pack were, reportedly, in close pursuit.

The Guardian

Meryl Streep, a longtime supporter, pushed through the crowd with photographers in close pursuit.

The New York Times

Diego Costa, previously well shackled, burst clear with Yevhen Khacheridi and Dragovic in close pursuit.

Independent

As sirens wailed nearby, one of the suspects scaled a fence, with Cox in close pursuit.

The New York Times - Sports

With Feliz in close pursuit, the pair looked like kids running down an alley.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

They were nearly a minute ahead of the closest pursuit.

The New York Times - Sports

The weekend's results failed to firm up who would be coming in the opposite direction after the three clubs in closest pursuit of the League One leaders Southend all dropped points in the race for automatic promotion.

The Guardian - Sport

Both sides came close in pursuit of the first try, as a Bath catch and drive was halted just shy of the line and at the other end Alex Corbisiero, making his first start since October after an injury lay-off, almost capitalised on a stray Nick Abendanon pass.

BBC

(Below) Quin was the closest in pursuit of Welker.

The New York Times

Schools close, normal pursuits suffer, and emergency rooms and the entire healthcare system become seriously overloaded.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "close pursuit" to describe scenarios where someone is being actively followed or chased, either physically or metaphorically. It's useful in narratives, reports, or descriptions of competitive situations.

Common error

Avoid using "close pursuit" when a more casual or less urgent term like "following" would be more appropriate. "Close pursuit" implies a sense of urgency or determination that might be absent in a less intense situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close pursuit" functions as a noun phrase typically used as a prepositional object. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in written English. It often describes the action of chasing or closely following someone or something.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Wiki

18%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "close pursuit" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe an active chase or intense following. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts, primarily in News & Media and Wiki sources. The phrase carries a neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal settings. Alternatives such as "in hot pursuit" and "in relentless pursuit" can add different nuances to the description. When writing, ensure the context warrants the intensity implied by "close pursuit", as using a more casual term like "following" might be more appropriate in less urgent situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in hot pursuit

This alternative emphasizes the intensity and urgency of the chase.

in relentless pursuit

This alternative highlights the persistence and determination of the chasing party.

in immediate pursuit

This alternative stresses the speed and proximity of the chase.

in tight pursuit

This alternative is similar in meaning, emphasizing proximity.

in avid pursuit

This alternative emphasizes the enthusiasm of the pursuer.

in eager pursuit

Similar to avid pursuit, focusing on enthusiasm.

in active pursuit

Highlights the ongoing nature of the chase.

in earnest pursuit

Emphasizes the seriousness of the chase.

in constant chase

Focuses on the continuous aspect of the pursuit.

in continuing chase

Similar to constant chase, implying an ongoing action.

FAQs

How can I use "close pursuit" in a sentence?

You can use "close pursuit" to describe a chase, as in "The police were in "close pursuit" of the suspect" or a competition, as in "Other companies are in "close pursuit" of market leadership".

What are some alternatives to "close pursuit"?

Alternatives include phrases like "in hot pursuit", "in relentless pursuit", or "in tight pursuit" depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to use "close pursuit" or "in close pursuit"?

"In "close pursuit"" is the more common and idiomatic phrasing. Using "close pursuit" on its own is less typical.

What's the difference between "close pursuit" and "following closely"?

"Close pursuit" implies a chase or a sense of urgency or competition. "Following closely" is a more neutral description of maintaining a short distance.