should I pursue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "should I pursue" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when contemplating whether to follow a particular course of action or chase a goal. Example: "As I consider my career options, I often ask myself, should I pursue a master's degree?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Should I pursue this?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Should I pursue the case or let karma do its job?

The New York Times - Magazine

Should I pursue an academic career or join a company?

Science Magazine

I was constantly trying to make up my mind: Should I pursue an academic career or try my luck elsewhere?

Science Magazine

Should I pursue an academic career, or should I get a job in industry and have an impact on the "real" world?

Science Magazine

Why? Startups and Entrepreneurship: Should I pursue my dreams or get rich?

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

While I know I should pursue opportunities abroad, I am finding an ever-increasing number of practical and sentimental reasons to remain in Greece.

The Guardian

Exactly how I pursue it should be my choice and right.

Forbes

I thought I should pursue a "worthwhile" profession and that being anything that resembled an artist or other creative was frivolous.

Huffington Post

It wasn't until I found out about Girls Who Code that I realized that I should pursue my interest regardless of what other people think.

Huffington Post

Although some felt I should pursue the job, most felt I should take this potentially once in a lifetime opportunity.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "should I pursue", clearly define the object of your pursuit to provide context and avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of asking "Should I pursue?", specify "Should I pursue this job offer?" or "Should I pursue a relationship with this person?".

Common error

Avoid using "should I pursue" in overly general contexts without specifying what you are considering pursuing. This can lead to confusion or a lack of clear direction. Instead of asking "Should I pursue something new?", try to pinpoint specific areas of interest: "Should I pursue a career in tech?"

Linguistic Context

The phrase "should I pursue" functions as an interrogative clause starter, used to introduce a question expressing doubt or uncertainty about undertaking a certain course of action. As Ludwig indicates, it's a valid and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science & Research

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "should I pursue" serves as a pivotal question when contemplating a course of action, be it in professional, personal, or academic realms. Ludwig confirms it's grammatically correct and usable, though somewhat uncommon. Usage leans toward neutral to professional registers, frequently appearing in News & Media and Science & Research contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the object of pursuit. Related phrases like "is it advisable for me to chase" or "shall I give my attention to" can provide alternative ways to express the idea. Ultimately, deciding whether to pursue something requires careful consideration of benefits, costs, and alignment with personal goals.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Is it advisable for me to chase

Emphasizes the wisdom or appropriateness of pursuing something.

Should I dedicate myself to

Highlights commitment and long-term involvement.

Is it wise for me to undertake

Focuses on the prudence and potential risks involved.

Would it be beneficial for me to follow

Highlights potential gains and advantages.

Is it the right path for me to take

Emphasizes the suitability of a particular course of action to a person's goals.

Shall I give my attention to

Suggests focusing one's efforts and time on a certain endeavor.

Is it my calling to chase

Implies a strong sense of purpose and destiny.

Would it serve me to go after

Suggests an inquiry into the usefulness of attempting something.

Ought I to devote time to

Emphasizes a moral or ethical obligation.

Is it advantageous for me to go for

Emphasizes the strategic benefits of attempting something.

FAQs

How do I use "should I pursue" in a sentence?

Use "should I pursue" when you are questioning whether it is right to follow a specific path or achieve a certain goal. For example: "Should I pursue a master's degree to advance my career?" or "Should I pursue this relationship even if it means relocating?"

What can I say instead of "should I pursue"?

You can use alternatives like "should I seek", "should I explore", or "is it worth it for me to undertake" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "should I pursue" or "should I follow"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "should I pursue" implies a more active and determined effort to achieve a goal, while "should I follow" can suggest a less active approach, such as following advice or a set path. The best option depends on the specific context.

What factors should I consider when asking "should I pursue" something?

Consider the potential benefits, costs, risks, and your personal values and goals. Ask yourself if the pursuit aligns with your long-term objectives and whether you are willing to invest the necessary time, effort, and resources. If "is it wise for me to undertake" this task?