kept hunting

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "kept hunting" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the ongoing action of searching or pursuing something over a period of time. Example: "Despite the challenges, she kept hunting for the perfect job that matched her skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

His boss kept hunting.

The New York Times

They kept hunting.

The New Yorker

Meanwhile, the couple kept hunting.

The New York Times

Though burned, he kept hunting out of habit.

The New York Times

The two friends kept hunting, just in case the deal fell through or a better one appeared.

The New York Times

Mr. Jones spoke dismissively of a couple of men who kept hunting dogs at the Yard but did not hunt.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

But he wanted to keep hunting.

The New York Times

To keep hunting whales: Japan, Norway, and Iceland.

The New Yorker

She decided two things: the fourth floor was her limit, and she would keep hunting.

The New York Times

According to the psychologists Amy Warriner and Karin Humphreys, the worst strategy in such situations is to keep hunting.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

If the Prime Minister does keep his promise, MPs will vote on whether to keep hunting with dogs illegal.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "kept hunting" to convey persistence and determination in a search, whether literal or figurative. It's especially effective when highlighting ongoing effort despite challenges.

Common error

Avoid using "kept hunting" in contexts where the searching is passive or lacks a clear objective. Opt for alternatives like "continued searching" when the active pursuit isn't the primary focus.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "kept hunting" functions as a verb phrase, specifically a past tense construction indicating a continuous or repeated action in the past. Ludwig examples confirm its use to describe ongoing searches or pursuits.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science & Research

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "kept hunting" is a grammatically correct and commonly used verb phrase to describe the continuous and persistent action of searching or pursuing something. Ludwig AI validates this usage. It appears frequently in News & Media sources, indicating a neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure the context emphasizes ongoing effort and determination. Alternatives like "continued searching" or "persisted in seeking" may be more appropriate in certain situations. It is important to use "kept hunting" when the active pursuit is a core element of the intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

continued searching

Emphasizes the continuation of the act of searching, removing the hunting metaphor.

persisted in seeking

Highlights the persistence and effort in trying to find something.

maintained the search

Focuses on upholding or keeping the search going.

carried on looking

A more informal alternative emphasizing the act of looking over time.

remained on the lookout

Stresses the state of being watchful and ready to find something.

didn't give up searching

Highlights the determination to continue searching despite difficulties.

persevered in the quest

A more formal and emphatic way of saying someone continued to search with dedication.

sustained the pursuit

Emphasizes the prolonged nature of the effort to find or achieve something.

never stopped seeking

Focuses on the unwavering nature of the search, implying relentless effort.

kept up the chase

Uses "chase" as a metaphor for searching, implying active pursuit.

FAQs

What does it mean to say someone "kept hunting"?

Saying someone "kept hunting" implies they persistently continued searching or pursuing something, often despite challenges or setbacks. It suggests determination and ongoing effort in their pursuit.

How can I use "kept hunting" in a sentence?

You can use "kept hunting" to describe a literal search, like "The dog "kept hunting" for the ball in the tall grass", or a figurative one, such as "She "kept hunting" for a job that matched her skills".

Which is more appropriate, "kept hunting" or "continued searching"?

"Kept hunting" implies a more active and potentially challenging search, whereas "continued searching" is a more neutral and general term. Choose "kept hunting" when you want to emphasize the persistence and effort involved.

What are some alternatives to using "kept hunting"?

Alternatives include "continued searching", "persisted in seeking", or "remained on the lookout", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.