make after
C1 formal inseparable transitive
In simple words
To run or go quickly after someone who is moving away, trying to catch them.
Literal meaning: 'Make' in an older sense means to move or go; 'after' indicates following behind. The meaning is transparent but the structure is archaic.
Meanings
1 C1 formal
To pursue or give chase to someone moving away, especially with urgency.
"The moment the thief bolted, the officer made after him through the crowded market."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Archaic or literary in modern English; rarely used in contemporary everyday speech. More common in older literature and formal writing. In modern speech, 'go after,' 'chase,' or 'run after' are strongly preferred. May appear in historical novels or formal descriptions of pursuit.
Commonly used with
thief suspect figure vehicle immediately
Forms
Base
make after
I/you/we/they
3rd person
makes after
he/she/it
Past simple
made after
yesterday
Past participle
made after
have + pp
-ing form
making after
continuous
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Synonyms
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