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Phrasal verbs "chase down" vs "chase up"

Differences between chase down and chase up

Chase down usually means to pursue or search for someone or something until you catch it, whereas chase up generally means to follow up on something that has not been completed or resolved.

Meanings and Definitions: chase down vs chase up

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Chase down

  • 1Try hard to find or get something.

    The press CHASED us DOWN when the story broke.

Chase up

  • 1Ensure that someone remembers to do something.

    The librarian is CHASING me UP about my overdue books.

  • 2Try to get someone to pay a bill, debt, etc.

    I CHASED her UP as she hadn't paid for several months.

  • 3Try to get more information about the progress of something.

    I didn't get a reply so I have been CHASING them UP.

Usage Examples: chase down, chase up in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

chase down

Example

The detective chased down the suspect.

Example

She chases down the best deals at the mall.

chase up

Example

I need to chase up my friend about returning my book.

Example

She chases up her clients for payments every month.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Chase down

hunt for

To search for something or someone persistently and aggressively.

Example

The detective had to hunt for clues to solve the murder case.

track down

To locate or find someone or something after a long search.

Example

She managed to track down her long-lost friend through social media.

run after

To pursue or chase someone or something in order to catch it.

Example

The kids were running after the ice cream truck to get some treats.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Chase up

follow up on

To check on the progress or status of something that has not been completed or resolved.

Example

I need to follow up on my job application to see if they received it.

check in on

To inquire about someone's well-being or progress on a task or project.

Example

I need to check in on my team to make sure they're on track with their work.

nudge about

To remind or prompt someone about a task or project that needs attention.

Example

I had to nudge my colleague about the report deadline since he seemed to forget about it.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “chase”

Phrasal Verbs with “down”

Phrasal Verbs with “up”

Differences in chase down vs chase up: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: chase down or chase up?

In daily conversation, people use chase down more often than chase up. This is because chase down is used for more action-oriented situations such as chasing a criminal or finding a lost item. Chase up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about following up on tasks or projects. So, while both phrases are used, chase down is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of chase down and chase up

Chase down and chase up 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 chase down and chase up

The tone of chase down and chase up can differ based on context. Chase down often carries an urgent or determined tone when related to pursuing or searching for something, while chase up typically has a more polite and professional tone, especially when referring to following up on tasks or projects.

chase down & chase up: Synonyms and Antonyms

Chase down

Synonyms

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