pursues

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pursues" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing the act of chasing or striving to achieve something, such as a goal or an interest. Example: "She pursues her dreams with unwavering determination, never letting obstacles stand in her way."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It seems that Abbott is intent on turning Australia into a charco-state — a nation that pursues economic riches from coal, gas and other fossil fuels no matter the social or environmental cost.

The Guardian

"The focus that Iran must have is that it faces the prospect if it pursues nuclear weapons of sparking an arms race in the region.

The Guardian

Rafael Benítez, as you would expect, has done it his way – using 22 players already as he pursues an aggressive rotation scheme to keep his side fresh for the Champions League.

The Guardian - Sport

Today, The Rockefeller Foundation pursues this mission through dual goals: advancing inclusive economies that expand opportunities for more broadly shared prosperity, and building resilience by helping people, communities and institutions prepare for, withstand, and emerge stronger from acute shocks and chronic stresses.

The Guardian

Any interference can only be justified if it is clearly defined by law, pursues a legitimate aim and is strictly necessary to the aim pursued.

The Guardian

When a Labour government pursues anti-Labour policies it no longer deserves respect or loyalty from Labour members and voters.

The Guardian - Opinion

The dramatic story of a drummer who pursues excellence at all costs won top honors at the Sundance film festival.

The Guardian - Film

The novel explores the "comical see-saw" of the flesh and the spirit through the sinister Gilbert who is a controlling rationalist, prudently afraid of "the Passions", and Fenwick who pursues his desires while struggling to avert the threats to his identity occasioned by his strange pact with his godfather.

The Guardian - Books

Once considered a radical institution, York now pursues aggressive divide-and-conquer strike-breaking tactics.

The Guardian

When one nation pursues a nuclear weapon the risks rise for all nations, he said in a nod at Iran.

The Economist

The firms he pursues complain that the fines are arbitrary, but that they dare not dispute them, since they cannot risk losing all-important licences.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pursues" when you want to convey a sense of active effort and determination in achieving a specific goal or objective. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "pursues" in passive constructions. The verb inherently implies active agency, so passive voice can sound awkward. For example, instead of "The goal is pursued by the team", write "The team pursues the goal".

Linguistic Context

The word "pursues" functions primarily as a verb. Ludwig AI confirms its usage denotes the action of striving to achieve something, either physically or metaphorically. It indicates an active and intentional effort towards a goal.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pursues" is a versatile verb used to describe the act of striving towards a goal. Ludwig AI and examples show it is grammatically sound and appropriate for various contexts, from news articles to formal reports. While there may be better word choice based on specifics of the pursuit described, "pursues" can be used as-is. Remember to avoid using "pursues" in passive constructions. Replaceable alternatives include "strives for", "seeks", and "chases", depending on the nuance desired. Common in news and formal settings, the usage analysis confirms its place as correct and "very common" in modern English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

aims for

Highlights the intention and direction of the effort.

works towards

Focuses on the sustained effort and progress made in achieving a goal.

strives for

Focuses on the effort and determination involved in achieving a goal.

endeavors to

Suggests a formal and determined effort to achieve something.

seeks after

Emphasizes the act of looking for or trying to find something specific.

is in pursuit of

Adds a sense of active searching and dedication.

chases after

Implies a more active and energetic pursuit, often of something elusive.

devotes oneself to

Highlights the commitment and dedication to a particular goal or activity.

is after

A more informal way of saying "pursues", often used in colloquial contexts.

quests for

Implies a long and arduous search, often for something of great value.

FAQs

How to use "pursues" in a sentence?

The word "pursues" is used to describe the act of actively striving for something. For example, "The company "pursues" a strategy of aggressive expansion".

What can I say instead of "pursues"?

You can use alternatives like "strives for", "seeks", or "chases" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "pursues" or "pursue"?

"Pursues" is the third-person singular present tense form of the verb "pursue", used when the subject is singular (e.g., "he", "she", "it"). "Pursue" is the base form, used with plural subjects (e.g., "they", "we", "I") or in the infinitive.

What's the difference between "pursues" and "follows"?

"Pursues" implies an active effort to achieve or obtain something, while "follows" suggests going after or coming after someone or something in a linear manner. For example, someone might pursue a dream, but follow a leader.