play catch up

VERB

pursue

Synonyms

STRONGEST

go after seek

STRONG

accompany attend badger bait bug chivy dog fish harass harry haunt hound hunt oppress persevere persist plague ride shadow stalk tag tail trace track trail

WEAK

bird-dog camp on the doorstep of give chase hunt down move behind nose around poke around prowl after run after run down scout out search for search high heaven search out take out after track down

Antonyms

STRONG

aid assist be lazy give up help ignore leave leave alone let go neglect quit run away stop support

WEAK

discontinue eschew retreat shun

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

play catch up

In all the areas he mentions—quantum computing, fusion energy and military technology—the Chinese dirigiste approach has led them to try and play catch up with the U.S.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 3, 2026

The EU money, while modest, is supposed to help Europe play catch up with the United States and China in the sector.

From Barron's ● Mar. 10, 2026

They also expect bigger corporations will play catch up when they see competitors laying off.

From MarketWatch ● Dec. 18, 2025

Dergarabedian noted that Memorial Day weekend is a time when moviegoers play can play catch up with films they’ve missed and heard about.

From Seattle Times ● May 19, 2024

While regulators play catch up, some tools are emerging to help protect artists.

From BBC ● Jul. 31, 2023

play catch up

Example Sentences

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