inseguire
/in.seˈɡwi.re/
The English phrase 'chasing' can be translated into Italian using the verb inseguire.
The verb inseguire means to run after someone or something in order to catch them. While it describes physical pursuit, it is also used figuratively to describe pursuing abstract goals, such as chasing a dream (inseguire un sogno).
How does it change in a sentence?
If you need to refer to the act itself as a noun, use inseguimento, which means a chase or pursuit.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /in.seˈɡwi.re/. It has 4 syllables, with the stress on the 3rd syllable.
Did you know?
- The Italian word inseguire is a direct relative of the English word 'sequel'. Both derive from the Latin root meaning 'to follow'.
- When 'chasing' someone in a romantic context, Italians typically avoid inseguire and instead use corteggiare, which means 'to court'.
- In Italian sports, inseguire is used to describe a team trying to close a points gap in a league table. This treats a numerical lead as a physical object that can be chased down.
Examples in context
- Smisi di inseguire la moda.I stopped chasing fashion.This sentence shows how to use inseguire regarding fashion.Tatoeba #9448907 by Guybrush88, translation #9448886 by AlanF_US
- Il cane sogna di inseguire scoiattoli.The dog is dreaming of chasing squirrels.This sentence shows the use of inseguire with animals.Tatoeba #13473642 by Nuel, translation #13473641 by Nuel
- Mi hai accusato di inseguire il denaro.You accused me of chasing money.This sentence illustrates the figurative use of inseguire regarding money.Tatoeba #11620150 by Nuel, translation #11620149 by Nuel
- Il detective è all'inseguimento del sospettoThe detective is chasing the suspect
- Mi piace inseguire le farfalle nel parcoI enjoy chasing butterflies in the park
- 6 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Giulia and Francesco are at a park watching children play.
- GiuliaGuarda quel bambino che cerca di inseguire la sua palla.Look at that child trying to chase his ball.
- FrancescoÈ davvero stanco di inseguire quel pallone.He is really tired of chasing that ball.
- GiuliaSpero che riesca finalmente a prenderlo.I hope he finally manages to catch it.
- FrancescoSì, sembra che stia per riuscirci.Yes, it looks like he is about to succeed.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry inseguire, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
