Understanding the Phrasal Verb "Go After": Meaning and Usage
Welcome, English learners! Phrasal verbs can be tricky, but they are essential for sounding natural and fluent in English. Today, we're diving deep into the versatile phrasal verb "go after". If you've ever wanted to express the idea of pursuing something or someone, then understanding "go after" is crucial. This post will break down its meanings, show you how to structure sentences correctly, explore related terms, and give you a chance to practice. By the end, you'll be more confident using "go after" in your everyday conversations and writing, a key step in your journey to learn English vocabulary effectively.
Table of Contents
What Does Go after Mean?
The phrasal verb "go after" is quite common in English and generally implies the act of trying to obtain, reach, or catch something or someone. It suggests effort and determination in pursuing a specific target, whether it's a physical chase, an ambition, or even seeking justice. Understanding the context is key to grasping its precise meaning.
More: Go About: Meaning and Usage of this Tricky Phrasal Verb
Structure with Go after
Understanding how to structure sentences with "go after" is vital for correct usage. This phrasal verb is transitive, meaning it usually requires an object. Let's look at its common meanings and their typical sentence structures.
Meaning 1: To pursue or chase someone or something
This is one of the most straightforward meanings of "go after". It implies physically following or trying to catch someone or something.
- Structure: Subject + go after + object (person/animal/thing)
- Example 1: The police dog will go after the suspect if he tries to run away.
- Example 2: My cat loves to go after the red dot from the laser pointer.
Meaning 2: To try to get or achieve something (often with effort)
Here, "go after" refers to striving for a goal, a job, a prize, or an opportunity. It emphasizes ambition and the effort involved in achieving something desirable.
- Structure: Subject + go after + object (goal/job/opportunity/dream)
- Example 1: Sarah decided to go after her dream of becoming a doctor, no matter how hard it seemed.
- Example 2: Many companies go after the most talented graduates each year.
Meaning 3: To try to find and punish or criticize someone
In this context, "go after" means to pursue someone with the intention of confronting, punishing, or heavily criticizing them. It often carries a more aggressive or determined connotation.
- Structure: Subject + go after + object (person/organization)
- Example 1: The investigative journalist decided to go after the corrupt politician, exposing his illegal activities.
- Example 2: After the scandal, the media really started to go after the company's CEO.
Meaning 4: To follow someone or something in sequence or order
Less commonly, "go after" can mean to follow in a sequence, like in a list or a speaking order. It indicates a position or turn that comes subsequent to another.
- Structure: Subject + go after + object (person/item in a sequence)
- Example 1: John will present his findings first, and then Mary will go after him with her report.
- Example 2: In the lineup, the blue car will go after the red one.
Learning these different nuances and structures will greatly enhance your ability to use "go after" accurately. Pay attention to the context, as it will usually make the specific meaning clear. Consistent practice with various examples is key to mastering English phrasal verbs like this one.
More: Mastering 'Gloss Over': Meanings and Usage in English
Related Phrases and Synonyms
To better understand "go after" and to vary your vocabulary, it's helpful to know some synonyms and related phrases. These alternatives can often be used in similar contexts, though they might carry slightly different shades of meaning. Below is a table of synonyms with explanations and examples.
| Synonym | Explanation | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Pursue | To follow or chase someone or something; to try to achieve something over a period. | She decided to pursue a career in international law. |
| Chase | To run after someone or something in order to catch them. | The dog likes to chase squirrels in the park. |
| Seek | To try to find or get something, especially something that is not a physical object. | They came to this country to seek a better life. |
| Aim for | To have something as your goal; to try to achieve something. | We should aim for a significant improvement in sales. |
| Track down | To find someone or something after a long or difficult search. | The detective managed to track down the witness. |
Using these synonyms can make your English sound more sophisticated and precise. Remember that while they are similar to "go after", the best choice of word often depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.
More: Mastering 'Give up on': Usage, Meaning, and Examples in English
Practice Time!
Now it's time to test your understanding of the phrasal verb "go after". Choose the best option for each question.
Question 1: Which sentence correctly uses "go after" to mean pursuing a goal? a) The lion will go after the gazelle for its meal.
b) She decided to go after the promotion with determination.
c) Please go after him and give him this message.
d) The auditors will go after any discrepancies in the financial records.
Correct answer: b
Question 2: The police are ___________ the escaped prisoner. a) going to after
b) go afters
c) going after
d) gone after
Correct answer: c
Question 3: "If you want that scholarship, you really need to ___________ it!" What does "go after" mean here? a) To follow in sequence
b) To chase physically
c) To try to find and punish
d) To strive to achieve
Correct answer: d
Question 4: Identify the sentence where "go after" implies trying to find and criticize/punish: a) My little brother always tries to go after me when we play tag.
b) The tax authorities will go after anyone who evades taxes.
c) He wants to go after a master's degree in engineering.
d) The speaker who will go after the current one is very famous.
Correct answer: b
How did you do? Reviewing the meanings and example sentences can help if you found any of these challenging. Consistent practice is key to mastering English phrasal verbs!
Conclusion
Understanding and correctly using the phrasal verb "go after" significantly enriches your English communication skills. As we've seen, its various meanings—from chasing and pursuing goals to seeking retribution—make it a versatile and common part of the language. By familiarizing yourself with its different structures and contexts, you can express yourself more accurately and fluently. Keep practicing, observe how native speakers use it, and don't be afraid to incorporate "go after" into your own conversations and writing. This will undoubtedly help you in your journey to master English phrasal verbs.