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trail

verb C1 Formal

Meaning

To trail is to follow or pursue something or someone, typically in a manner that is gradual or less direct, often implying a sense of observation or monitoring over time rather than immediate engagement or confrontation.
💡 The term "trail" can sometimes be confused with "pursue," but it often conveys a sense of passive observation rather than active engagement.

Example Sentences

The company will trail competitors before launching its new product .
The researchers trailed the data to identify significant patterns in behavior .

Common Phrases

trail behind trail off trailblazer

Synonyms

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