καταδιώκω
Lemma: καταδιώκω
Translation: to chase; to pursue; to persecute; to hunt down (verb)
Etymology: From κατά (down, against, thoroughly) + διώκω (to pursue, chase). The prefix κατά intensifies the base meaning, suggesting a thorough or aggressive pursuit. The root διώκω is related to ancient Greek concepts of pursuit both in literal (hunting) and legal (prosecution) contexts.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'kata' (down) + 'dioko' (chase) = bearing down on someone in pursuit
- The 'dio' part sounds like 'duo' - imagine chasing after two people
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Often used in news reports about police pursuits and in historical contexts regarding persecution of groups. Also common in sports commentary when describing one team or athlete pursuing another.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While ακολουθώ means to follow in a neutral way, καταδιώκω implies aggressive or hostile pursuit
Notes: καταδιώκω often implies the pursuit is unwanted by the one being pursued
Mnemonic: καταδιώκω has κατά (down/against) - think of bearing down on someone