run after

Try to catch

To run after something is to chase it, either literally or figuratively.

A dog runs after a squirrel; an ambitious person runs after success or status.

To run after someone can mean pursuing them romantically: He's been running after her for months.

The phrase often implies futile or undignified pursuit.

chase

pursue

Follow to catch

  • followGo behind another
  • tailRear animal appendage
  • trackPath or monitored route

hunt · hound · shadow · stalk · trail · dog · give chase · hotfoot

romantic

court

Trial venue or sports surface

  • wooSeek romantic favor
  • pursueFollow to catch
  • chaseRapid following of quarry

seek out · fancy · desire · pine for · have designs on

pester

badger

Nag persistently

  • nagPester repeatedly
  • harassPersistently torment someone
  • houndHunting dog breed

chivvy · hassle · bother · chase down · bird-dog · pressure · importune · plague · pester · follow up

Categories
Opposites
seeking vs avoiding

run afteravoid

Stay away from

evade · shun · steer clear of · keep away from · flee

romantic pursuit vs indifference/rejection

run aftershun

Deliberately keep away

reject · spurn · rebuff · push away · avoid

active pursuit vs. passive waiting

run afterwait for

Remain expecting something

stand still · stay put · bide one's time · play hard to get · hold back

Family

run, after, runner, running, pursuit, afterward, runs, afterwards, outrun

Familiarity
Top 20,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Concrete · Everyday, not technical · Rated G