Rummage: meaning, definitions and examples

Similar to the first description, 'rummage' denotes looking through items in a somewhat frantic or disorganized way, typically in a confined space.

• She began to rummage in the closet for her old shoes.
• He spent the whole afternoon rummaging through his papers to find the missing document.

A general term for looking for something. It can be used in formal and informal contexts and doesn't imply intensity or disorganization.

• She searched the entire house for her missing ring.
• We need to search the database for that information.

Use 'hunt' to describe a deliberate and often thorough search for something, especially when involving pursuit or following a trail.

• The children went on a treasure hunt in the garden.
• He is hunting for a job in the tech industry.

This term implies a very thorough and intensive search, often involving looking over a wide area or through detailed scrutiny.

• They scoured the countryside looking for the lost dog.
• The detectives scoured the crime scene for any clues.

Use this word when describing searching through items in a disorderly or hasty manner, often suggesting a mess or urgency. It sometimes has a negative connotation.

• She had to rummage through her bag to find her keys.
• He rummaged through the old boxes in the attic.

This word is suitable for situations where you are trying to find something or someone, and can be used in a general sense for both physical and digital contexts.

• She searched the entire house for her missing cat.
• He searched the internet for the latest news.

Use this phrase when you're casually or methodically scanning through written or collected information, often in a more organized manner.

• I need to look through my emails before deciding.
• He looked through the report to find the important details.

This word is appropriate when talking about investigating or discovering new places, ideas, or subjects with a sense of curiosity and thoroughness.

• They decided to explore the city on foot.
• She loves to explore different cultures when she travels.