What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
courted
Example
He courted her for months before she finally agreed to go out with him. [courted: past tense]
Example
In the olden days, men would court women by bringing them flowers and writing love letters. [courted: verb]
pursue
Example
She decided to pursue a career in medicine after volunteering at a hospital. [pursue: verb]
Example
The detective pursued the suspect through the crowded streets. [pursued: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pursue is more commonly used than courted in everyday language, as it is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts. Courted is less common and has a more traditional connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between courted and pursue?
Both courted and pursue can be used in formal and informal contexts, but courted may have a more old-fashioned and formal connotation due to its historical usage in the context of courtship and marriage.
