pursue knowledge

USAGE SUMMARY

"pursue knowledge" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use this phrase to express a desire to seek or acquire knowledge. For example, "I am determined to pursue knowledge and push my boundaries further every day."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

We pursue knowledge in the name of the public good.

Cornell University

But most schools pursue knowledge at the expense of character development and skills development.

The Guardian

What is the goal of science and why does man pursue knowledge?

Encyclopedia Britannica

There is, as he says, no overriding right to pursue knowledge for its own sake, quite independently of the consequences.

The New York Times - Books

You are an inspiration to me and all who pursue knowledge with a passion.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Higher education is not dependent on the information that students bring with them to college as much as on how well they know how to pursue knowledge.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

A large number, however, are leisure learners pursuing knowledge without explicit vocational ambitions.

The Guardian

She never stopped forming close friendships and pursuing knowledge and adventure.

The New York Times

If pursuing knowledge harms others, it is not acceptable to do it just because one can.

MIT Technology Review

What a graduate has is education acquired at an institution that pursues knowledge for its own sake.

The Guardian

Thus, a nerd or geek is not, as Mr. Fridman states, a student "for whom pursuing knowledge is the top priority" but a student for whom pursuing knowledge is the sole objective.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pursue knowledge" when you want to emphasize an active and continuous effort to gain understanding, rather than simply acquiring information passively.

Common error

While "pursue knowledge" is suitable for formal contexts, avoid using it excessively in casual conversations. Simpler phrases like "learn" or "find out" may be more appropriate in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pursue knowledge" functions as a verb phrase, where "pursue" acts as the main verb and "knowledge" is the direct object. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used to describe the act of actively seeking knowledge.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

33%

News & Media

55%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

1%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pursue knowledge" is a commonly used and grammatically correct phrase that signifies the active seeking of understanding. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It is most frequently found in academic and news-related contexts, indicating a neutral to formal register. Related phrases include "seek knowledge" and "acquire knowledge", each offering slightly different nuances. When writing, use "pursue knowledge" to emphasize active and continuous effort, and avoid overuse in casual settings. Numerous authoritative sources, such as The New York Times and Cornell University, demonstrate its widespread and appropriate usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seek knowledge

Emphasizes the act of searching for knowledge.

acquire knowledge

Focuses on the outcome of obtaining knowledge.

expand knowledge

Highlights the growth and broadening of one's understanding.

develop expertise

Implies a deeper, more specialized acquisition of knowledge and skill.

cultivate understanding

Suggests a more careful and nurturing approach to gaining knowledge.

advance learning

Focuses on progressing in the field of education or study.

deepen understanding

Highlights the act of enriching the comprehension.

foster intellect

Suggests promoting and nurturing intellectual growth.

investigate learning

Focuses on exploring and inquiring learning.

grow wisdom

Implies that knowledge is not enough, and experience is the way.

FAQs

How can I use "pursue knowledge" in a sentence?

You can use "pursue knowledge" to describe actively seeking information and understanding. For example, "The university encourages students to "pursue knowledge" in their chosen fields".

What are some alternatives to "pursue knowledge"?

Alternatives include "seek knowledge", "acquire knowledge", or "expand knowledge", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "pursue knowledge" or "seek knowledge"?

Both "pursue knowledge" and "seek knowledge" are correct. "Pursue" implies a more persistent and determined effort, while "seek" is a more general term for looking for knowledge.

What is the difference between "pursue knowledge" and "gain knowledge"?

"Pursue knowledge" suggests an ongoing process of actively seeking understanding. "Gain knowledge", on the other hand, implies the successful acquisition of information.