When it comes to expressing the idea of “go after” in different contexts, there are various ways to convey your intentions. Whether you’re seeking a formal or informal tone, this guide will provide you with a range of options to effectively communicate your desire to pursue or capture something. Below, we’ll explore different phrases, idioms, and expressions to express the concept of “go after” in various situations.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Go After”
If you wish to convey your intentions in a more formal manner, consider using the following phrases:
1. Pursue
Pursuing a goal requires determination and persistence.
Tip: Use “pursue” when referring to a long-term goal, academic studies, or professional advancement.
2. Chase
I am determined to chase my dreams and achieve success.
Tip: “Chase” implies actively seeking or striving for something with enthusiasm and determination.
3. Seek
I am seeking opportunities to enhance my skills and broaden my horizons.
Tip: Use “seek” to convey a deliberate quest or search for something valuable.
4. Strive for
I constantly strive for excellence in everything I do.
Tip: “Strive for” is especially useful when discussing personal growth, achievements, or reaching high standards.
5. Aim for
I aim for success by setting clear goals and working diligently.
Tip: Use this phrase to indicate setting targets or objectives and directing efforts towards their attainment.
6. Embark on
I am ready to embark on a new professional journey and take on new challenges.
Tip: “Embark on” suggests starting a new venture, project, or undertaking with determination.
Informal Ways to Say “Go After”
When adopting a more informal tone, you can choose from the following expressions:
1. Go for
I’m going for that promotion at work!
Tip: “Go for” is commonly used when expressing an intention to pursue a specific objective or opportunity.
2. Get after
I need to get after my fitness goals and start working out regularly.
Tip: Use “get after” to convey a sense of urgency and determination towards achieving a particular goal or target.
3. Run after
She’s been running after fame and fortune her whole life.
Tip: “Run after” suggests a relentless pursuit of something desirable, often with zeal or ambition.
4. Chase down
We’re going to chase down that scholarship opportunity!
Tip: Use “chase down” to indicate actively seeking or pursuing something with determination and resolve.
5. Set one’s sights on
He has set his sights on becoming the next CEO of the company.
Tip: This expression implies identifying a specific goal and making it the focus of one’s efforts and ambitions.
6. Go all out for
We are going all out for victory in the championship.
Tip: Use “go all out for” to express giving maximum effort and determination for a specific purpose or goal.
Additional Tips and Examples
1. Context Matters
It is important to consider the context and audience when choosing the appropriate phrase. Formal expressions are generally more suitable in professional or academic settings, while informal expressions are commonly used among friends, peers, or in casual conversations.
2. Combine Formal and Informal
In some cases, combining formal and informal phrases can add a touch of versatility and charm to your expressions. For example:
She is determined to pursue her dreams and go all out for success.
3. Appropriate Usage
Choose the phrases that best fit the particular situation. For example, “chase down” would be more appropriate when discussing opportunities, while “strive for” is better used for personal achievements or self-improvement.
4. Stay Focused
Always keep your goals and targets clear in your mind, and use these expressions to motivate yourself and communicate your determination to others. For example:
I am striving for greatness and won’t stop until I achieve my dreams.
5. Practice Makes Perfect
Practice using these expressions in everyday conversations to become more comfortable with their usage and to incorporate them naturally into your speech.
6. Recognize Cultural Differences
Be aware that some phrases or idioms might be more commonly used in specific regions or cultures. Adapt your choice of expressions accordingly, but remember that effective communication is often more important than regional variations.
By employing these various expressions, you will be able to effectively convey your intentions to “go after” something, both in formal and informal settings. Remember, determination and perseverance are key when pursuing your goals, so stay focused, remain dedicated, and never stop chasing your dreams!
