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Phrasal verbs "be after" vs "go after"

Differences between be after and go after

Be after usually means to be looking for something or trying to achieve a goal, while go after generally means to pursue someone or something in order to catch or capture them.

Meanings and Definitions: be after vs go after

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Be after

  • 1Try to find or get.

    The police ARE AFTER him because of the theft.

Go after

  • 1Chase, try to get.

    The cat WENT AFTER the pigeon, but it flew away.

Usage Examples: be after, go after in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

be after

Example

I am after a new job in the city.

Example

She is after the perfect dress for the party.

go after

Example

The dog always goes after the ball when I throw it.

Example

She goes after her dreams with determination.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Be after

look for

To search for something or someone.

Example

I'm looking for my keys. Have you seen them?

aim for

To have a specific goal or objective in mind.

Example

She's aiming for a promotion at work by the end of the year.

strive for

To make great efforts to achieve something.

Example

He's striving for excellence in his studies and spends hours every day practicing.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go after

chase down

To pursue someone or something in order to catch or capture them.

Example

The police had to chase down the suspect before they could arrest him.

pursue

To follow or chase someone or something in order to catch or capture them.

Example

She decided to pursue her dream of becoming a doctor and enrolled in medical school.

hunt for

To search for something or someone with the intention of catching or capturing them.

Example

The cat was hunting for mice in the barn when it suddenly saw a rat.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Differences in be after vs go after: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: be after or go after?

In daily conversation, people use go after more often than be after. This is because go after is used for more action-oriented situations such as chasing someone or pursuing a goal. Be after is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about searching for something or trying to achieve a goal. So, while both phrases are used, go after is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of be after and go after

Be after and go after are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of be after and go after

The tone of be after and go after can differ based on context. Be after often carries a curious or determined tone when related to searching or achieving a goal, while go after typically has a more aggressive or assertive tone, especially when referring to pursuing someone or something.

be after & go after: Synonyms and Antonyms

Go after

Synonyms

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