ruthlessly pursue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ruthlessly pursue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing an intense and unyielding effort to achieve a goal or objective, often without regard for the consequences. Example: "In her quest for success, she would ruthlessly pursue every opportunity that came her way."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Such people are often assumed to know what they want and ruthlessly pursue the lowest possible price for it.

The Economist

Gen. Pervez Musharraf, who has tirelessly presented himself as the honest, uncompromising leader who would ruthlessly pursue the corrupt and bring them to justice, now has to explain why he let his biggest fish off the hook.

The New York Times

Burney, whose observant wit anticipates the satire of Austen and Thackeray, captures the manners and affectations of the fashionable, the aspirational and the vulgar with comic relish, and leaves the reader judging the worth of those who ruthlessly pursue the status quo.

The Guardian - Books

In the classic shooter design structure, just as you're getting comfortable with your moves, you start encountering enemies who aren't so vulnerable, such as the heavily armoured tank guys with shotguns who ruthlessly pursue you around the dockside, and can get a one-shot kill from up close.

The Guardian - Tech

That means don't ruthlessly pursue your fetish with little or no regard for the counterperson's personal preferences.

Vice

That means don't ruthlessly pursue your fetish with little to no regard for the counterperson's personal preferences.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

They were ruthlessly pursued by Serbs, shelled and shot at.

The Guardian

Wasserman applied the same unbending logic to each of his ruthlessly pursued business ventures.

The Economist

Chechnya's pro-Kremlin leader, Ramzan Kadyrov, ruthlessly pursued the jihadis.

The Guardian

There's a Darwinian undertone to the vision of nature ruthlessly pursuing its survival instinct and triumphing over civilisation.

The Guardian - Books

He read "Covered," by Julia Slavin, a story about a middle-aged man who is ruthlessly pursued by his childhood security blanket.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ruthlessly pursue", consider the ethical implications of the action being described. Ensure the context justifies the intensity and potential consequences of such a determined pursuit. Is it power, success, revenge?

Common error

Avoid using "ruthlessly pursue" in situations that do not warrant such a strong term. Using it too casually can diminish its impact and make your writing sound melodramatic. Prefer more neutral options like "diligently work" or "actively seek" when the situation isn't extreme.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ruthlessly pursue" primarily functions as a verb phrase, indicating a manner of action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes the act of striving for something with extreme determination and a lack of consideration for potential negative impacts. Examples in Ludwig illustrate its use in contexts involving business, politics, and personal ambition.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Encyclopedias

29%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ruthlessly pursue" is a grammatically sound and somewhat uncommon verb phrase used to describe a determined and forceful pursuit of a goal, often without regard for ethical considerations or potential negative consequences. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is correct and usable. It's most frequently found in News & Media, Encyclopedia and Wiki contexts. When using this phrase, consider the ethical and emotional weight it carries, and ensure it aligns with the intended message and tone of your writing. Alternatives such as "aggressively pursue" or "doggedly pursue" might be more appropriate in contexts where a less severe tone is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

aggressively pursue

This alternative emphasizes a proactive and forceful approach, similar to "ruthlessly pursue" but without the negative connotation.

zealously pursue

This alternative highlights the enthusiastic and passionate nature of the pursuit, conveying a strong commitment.

doggedly pursue

This alternative emphasizes persistence and determination, suggesting an unwillingness to give up despite challenges.

relentlessly chase

This alternative replaces "pursue" with "chase", conveying a sense of continuous and unwavering pursuit.

single-mindedly pursue

This alternative highlights the focus and determination, emphasizing the absence of distractions.

fiercely pursue

This alternative intensifies the pursuit, suggesting a strong and competitive drive.

tenaciously pursue

This alternative emphasizes the unwavering grip and determination in the face of adversity.

implacably pursue

This alternative suggests a relentless and unappeasable nature to the pursuit, emphasizing its unstoppable quality.

determinedly seek

This alternative replaces "pursue" with "seek", shifting the focus to the act of searching with resolve.

leave no stone unturned

This alternative is an idiom meaning to make every possible effort to find or achieve something.

FAQs

What does "ruthlessly pursue" mean?

To "ruthlessly pursue" means to go after something with intense determination and a lack of concern for the potential consequences or harm to others. It implies a forceful and unwavering approach to achieving a goal.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "ruthlessly pursue"?

Use "ruthlessly pursue" when describing actions taken with extreme determination and a willingness to overcome any obstacle, even if it means causing harm or disregarding ethical considerations. It's suitable when the intensity of the pursuit is a key aspect of the situation.

What are some alternatives to "ruthlessly pursue"?

Alternatives to "ruthlessly pursue" include "aggressively pursue", "zealously pursue", or "doggedly pursue", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "ruthlessly pursue" too strong of a phrase for professional communication?

In many professional contexts, "ruthlessly pursue" may be too strong. Consider using milder alternatives like "diligently work" or "actively seek" to maintain a more balanced and professional tone.