pursuing

USAGE SUMMARY

"pursuing" is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it as a verb to describe someone actively engaged in or taking part in a particular activity. Example sentence: She is pursuing a degree in engineering.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

By pursuing his own interest he frequently promotes that of the society more effectually than when he really intends to promote it.

The Economist

In September, I emailed: Since you've chosen not to publish based on the information we have and we're not actively pursuing any more information, then I think it's reasonable to conclude that The Star is passing on this story.

The Guardian - Opinion

Visas can be arranged through Footloose Sea kayaking was invented in Greenland by Inuit hunters as a means of pursuing seals and whales, but today it is growing in popularity among holidaymakers keen to get up close to the majestic icebergs around the coast.

The Guardian - Travel

"I'm excited about pursuing other interests and taking other opportunities that present themselves to me during this break".

The Guardian - Sport

But the throng were autograph hunters of Robert Carlyle: they were only keen on pursuing the actor; I was alone in being solely interested in the director.

The Guardian - Opinion

"He presented an opinion that [the bank] would be better off targeting an alliance with a player such as Rabobank if it was serious such about pursuing such a major acquisition," Kelly wrote.

The Guardian - Business

This article replaces a previous version which wrongly stated that the SFO had "decided against" pursuing the Conservative party for return of funds allegedly stolen from the Polly Peck group by Asil Nadir.

The Guardian - Business

Before sending former service members back into the real world, the military attempts to help them identify habits that might or might not come in handy when pursuing other careers.

The Guardian - Money

He was a trade union MP, sponsored by the National Union of Mineworkers, and at Westminster was assiduous in pursuing the concerns of those he represented.

The Guardian

A second video shows Abbas driving a bus toward a cliff by pursuing the UN bid.

The Guardian

Only in 2010, 11 years after Armstrong had told the rider Christophe Bassons to leave the sport instead of "making accusations [about drug use] that aren't good for cycling" did the US Justice Department begin a federal investigation to see if crimes had been committed, followed a year later by the US Anti Doping Authority pursuing the allegations against Armstrong.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pursuing", ensure that the object of pursuit is clearly defined. This adds clarity and precision to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "pursuing" in contexts where the action is passive or unintentional. "Pursuing" implies a deliberate and active effort, so ensure your word choice aligns with the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "pursuing" is as a present participle, often used in continuous verb tenses to describe an ongoing action. As Ludwig AI indicates, it describes someone actively engaged in an activity. It can also function as a gerund, acting as a noun.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

84%

Formal & Business

8%

Science

4%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pursuing" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed term, primarily functioning as a present participle or gerund. As Ludwig AI suggests, it effectively conveys active engagement or striving towards a goal. Its frequent use in news and media, as highlighted by Ludwig's examples, indicates its versatile applicability across various contexts. When employing "pursuing", clarity and intention are key to ensure its accurate and impactful use. Consider also alternatives such as "engaging in" or "striving for" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

working towards

Indicates a deliberate and planned effort to reach a specific objective.

engaging in

Focuses on the act of participating or being involved in something.

endeavoring to

Suggests a serious and dedicated attempt to achieve a particular outcome.

undertaking

Implies a commitment to a task, often one that is complex or challenging.

striving for

Emphasizes effort and determination towards achieving a goal.

aiming for

Focuses on the intention or goal that one is trying to achieve.

seeking after

Highlights the act of searching or looking for something, often with a sense of purpose.

following up on

Highlights the continuation of an action or investigation.

chasing after

Implies a more active and perhaps urgent attempt to obtain something.

conducting

Emphasizes the organization and management of an activity.

FAQs

How to use "pursuing" in a sentence?

"Pursuing" is a verb form used to describe the act of striving towards a goal or following a particular path. For example, "She is "pursuing a degree" in engineering" or "The company is "pursuing new markets"."

What can I say instead of "pursuing"?

You can use alternatives like "engaging in", "striving for", or "working towards" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "pursuing a goal" or "pursuing to achieve a goal"?

"Pursuing a goal" is correct. The phrase "pursuing to achieve a goal" is redundant; "pursuing" already implies an intent to achieve something.

What's the difference between "pursuing" and "seeking"?

"Pursuing" implies a more active and determined effort to obtain something, whereas "seeking" suggests a more general search or quest. You might "seek" information, but you "pursue" a career.