Language evolves, but some spelling errors persist due to how words sound versus how they are actually written.
One common confusion in English is between persue and pursue. Many wonder if persue is an acceptable alternative spelling or simply a mistake.
If you’ve ever hesitated while writing this word, this guide will clear up the confusion once and for all.
Is it “persue” or “pursue”? The correct spelling is pursue, while “persue” is a common mistake. Learn why “pursue” is correct, its meaning, and memory tricks to spell it right!
Understanding the Common Confusion: Persue or Pursue?
It’s easy to see why persue seems like a valid spelling. English has many words with similar phonetic structures that allow for multiple spelling variations.
However, in this case, persue is not a correct word. The only acceptable spelling is pursue.
The confusion often arises because English has words like rescue, which end in -sue. This similarity might lead people to assume that persue is an acceptable form, but it isn’t recognized in standard English.
Breaking Down the Correct Spelling of Pursue
The correct spelling is pursue, which follows this structure:
- Root word: Purs- (from Old French poursuivre)
- Suffix: -ue (a common ending in many French-derived words like continue and argue)
Unlike other English words that end in -sue, pursue doesn’t follow a predictable spelling pattern. This is why it often causes confusion. However, persue is always incorrect and should be avoided.
The Definition and Use of Pursue in American English
In modern English, pursue is a verb that means to chase, follow, or strive toward something. It is widely used in both literal and metaphorical contexts.
Definition of Pursue:
- To follow or chase something in order to catch it Example: “The police officer pursued the suspect down the street.”
- To strive toward a goal or ambition Example: “She pursued a degree in engineering.”
- To continue with an action or effort Example: “Despite obstacles, he pursued his dreams.”
Literally Chasing: Pursue in Action
The verb pursue is often used in physical pursuits where one entity is chasing another.
Examples of Pursue in Literal Contexts:
- A predator pursues its prey in the wild.
- A runner pursues the finish line in a race.
- A journalist pursues a breaking news story to get the latest facts.
In these cases, pursue emphasizes an ongoing action—one where someone or something is physically moving toward a target.
Metaphorically Chasing Dreams: Pursue in Ideals
Beyond physical movement, pursue is widely used in abstract and metaphorical settings.
Common Uses of Pursue in Abstract Contexts:
- Pursuing education: “She pursued a master’s degree in psychology.”
- Pursuing happiness: “He traveled the world to pursue happiness and peace.”
- Pursuing justice: “The lawyer pursued the case despite challenges.”
- Pursuing excellence: “The athlete pursued perfection in every game.”
This metaphorical use of pursue conveys dedication and effort toward achieving something meaningful.
Hints to Remember How Pursue is Spelled
Since persue is incorrect, here are some memory tricks to help you remember the right spelling:
- Break it down – “Pursue” sounds like “per” + “sue,” but it’s actually “pur” + “sue.”
- Think of ‘pursuit’ – Since pursue comes from pursuit, remembering that connection can help.
- Create a mnemonic:
- Patients Understand Real Struggles Until End (P-U-R-S-U-E)
- Compare it to related words:
- Pursue → Pursuit → Pursuer → All retain “purs-” at the start.
Using these tricks, you can ensure you never mistakenly write persue again.
Examining the Obsolete Spelling: The Evolution of Pursue
There was a time when English had varied spellings for many words. However, persue never gained widespread acceptance.
Historically, pursue developed from the Middle English pursuen, which came from the Old French poursuivre. The obsolete spelling persue was likely a misunderstanding rather than an alternative form.
Unlike words with recognized archaic spellings, such as olde for old, persue never officially existed in English dictionaries.
Historical Perspective on the Spelling of Pursue
English spelling underwent significant changes over centuries, particularly under influences from Latin, French, and early English dialects.
| Century | Word Form | Language Origin |
|---|---|---|
| 13th | Poursuivre | Old French |
| 14th | Pursuen | Middle English |
| 16th | Pursue | Modern English |
By the time modern dictionaries standardized spelling, persue was already considered incorrect.
When to Use Pursue in Your Writing
If you’re wondering how to incorporate pursue correctly, consider these common contexts:
- Academic Writing: “The scientist pursued new discoveries in medicine.”
- Professional Goals: “He pursued a career in law.”
- Everyday Conversations: “Are you pursuing any hobbies lately?”
- Inspirational Messages: “Always pursue your dreams with determination.”
Because pursue is such a versatile verb, it fits in various styles of writing, from formal to casual.
Pursue: Its Role in Literature and Quotes from Famous Works
Many famous authors and figures have used pursue in their works to inspire and motivate.
Notable Quotes Featuring Pursue:
- “Pursue some path, however narrow and crooked, in which you can walk with love and reverence.” – Henry David Thoreau
- “Justice will not be served until those who are unaffected are as outraged as those who are.” – Benjamin Franklin
- “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” – Aristotle (interpreted as the need to pursue excellence)
Literature frequently uses pursue to emphasize ambition, determination, and striving toward ideals.
FAQs
1. Is “persue” a correct spelling?
No, “persue” is incorrect. The correct spelling is “pursue,” meaning to follow, chase, or strive for something.
2. Why do people mistakenly write “persue” instead of “pursue”?
The mistake happens because words like “rescue” end in -sue, leading to confusion. However, “pursue” does not follow that pattern.
3. What does “pursue” mean?
“Pursue” means to chase, follow, or strive toward a goal. Example: “She pursued a degree in medicine.”
4. How can I remember the correct spelling of “pursue”?
Try this mnemonic: “P-U-R-S-U-E” → Patients Understand Real Struggles Until End. Also, remember its noun form: “pursuit.”
5. Can “pursue” be used metaphorically?
Yes! “Pursue” is often used metaphorically, like “pursuing happiness,” “pursuing justice,” or “pursuing dreams.”
6. Has “persue” ever been an acceptable spelling?
No, “persue” was never a correct form in English. “Pursue” has been the standard spelling since the 16th century.
Conclusion
When it comes to persue vs. pursue, the correct choice is always pursue. The mistaken spelling likely comes from phonetic confusion, but persue is not recognized in English dictionaries.
Whether you are physically chasing something or metaphorically striving for success, pursue is the word to use.
Remember the spelling rules, use mnemonic devices, and integrate pursue correctly in your writing to ensure clarity and accuracy.
