bejaagd

Bejaagd is a Dutch term that functions as an adjective and as the past participle of the verb bejagen, meaning to hunt, chase, or pursue. As an adjective, bejaagd describes someone or something that is under pursuit or being hunted. In standard syntax it is commonly used in passive constructions with the auxiliary worden: Het dier wordt bejaagd door jagers (The animal is being hunted by hunters). It can also appear directly before a noun in attributive position: bejaagde dieren (hunted animals).

Usage and nuance: Bejaagd is most common in hunting, wildlife management, ecology, and journalism. It emphasizes the ongoing act of pursuit and the resulting condition of the hunted subject, rather than a completed action. Beyond literal hunting, it can be used metaphorically to describe people or groups perceived to be under pressure or constant pursuit.

Etymology and related terms: Bejaagd derives from the verb bejagen, which combines the base jaagen/jaagen meaning to hunt or chase with the prefix be-, a productive Dutch derivational prefix. Related terms include jaagen (to drive or spur on), jagers (hunters), and prooi (prey). The term is primarily used in Dutch-language contexts and is translated as hunted or pursued in English, depending on context.