verb HSK 6
to chase · to pursue · to expel · to drive out · one by one
Meaning
逐 is a literary and formal verb meaning to chase, pursue, or drive away. It appears frequently in written Chinese and classical texts, but is less common in everyday spoken language. As a component in compound words, it often carries the meaning of 'pursuing' or 'following in sequence'.
Usage
逐 is primarily used in formal writing, literature, and compound words rather than casual speech. Native speakers use it in set phrases like 逐渐 (gradually) and 追逐 (to chase). When used alone as a verb, it sounds quite literary and is more likely to appear in news articles, formal documents, or classical Chinese contexts.
Examples
- 01这个项目逐步推进，预计明年完成。, .This project is advancing step by step and is expected to be completed next year.
- 02他的病情逐渐好转。.His condition is gradually improving.
Common collocations
- 逐渐gradually, little by little
- 逐步step by step, progressively
- 逐年year by year
- 逐一one by one
Antonyms
Origin
The character 逐 combines the radical 辶 (walking/movement) with 豕 (pig), originally depicting the act of chasing or driving animals.