Seek Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
seek
[siหk ]
Definitions
to search for
To attempt to find something by looking or asking for it. Seeking can involve a physical search, a mental search, or a search for information.
Synonyms
look for, pursue, search.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| seek |
This is used when you are making a deliberate and focused effort to find or achieve something, often of a more abstract nature.
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| search |
This is appropriate when systematically trying to find something, often involving a thorough examination of an area or subject.
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| look for |
Commonly used in everyday situations when you are trying to find something specific, often a physical object or person.
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| pursue |
Used when you are chasing after or striving to achieve something, often with a tone of dedication or persistence. It can also have a slightly formal or serious connotation.
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Examples of usage
- I am seeking a new job opportunity.
- She sought advice from her friends.
- The detective is seeking clues to solve the case.
a quest or pursuit
An act of seeking or pursuing something. It can refer to a journey, a mission, or a goal that someone is striving to achieve.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| seek |
Used when someone is looking for something or trying to find information or a solution.
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| quest |
Often used in an adventurous or epic context, suggesting a long, difficult journey to achieve or find something.
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| pursuit |
Used when someone is actively chasing or following something, often a goal, dream, or a person.
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| mission |
Typically used when someone has a goal or task to achieve, often with a sense of duty or purpose.
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Examples of usage
- His seek for knowledge led him to travel the world.
- The seek for justice was long and arduous.
- She embarked on a seek for inner peace.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In literature, characters often seek knowledge, love, or adventure, making their journeys relatable and engaging.
- Famous stories like 'The Alchemist' revolve around the theme of seeking one's personal legend or destiny.
- Many epic tales depict the hero's quest as a metaphor for personal growth and self-discovery.
Psychology
- The desire to seek can reflect human curiosity, a fundamental driver of learning and exploration.
- Seeking out challenges can be linked to personal development and self-improvement in psychological research.
- The concept of 'seek therapy' involves individuals actively looking for solutions or help in overcoming challenges.
Pop Culture
- Movies like 'The Pursuit of Happyness' illustrate the struggle and determination involved in seeking success.
- The phrase 'Seek and you shall find' has been popularized in songs and quotes, emphasizing the power of searching.
- In video games, quests often consist of seeking items or completing tasks to advance the story.
Science
- In ecology, species seek resources like food and shelter to survive and thrive in their environments.
- Researchers seeking answers to medical mysteries often lead to breakthroughs that can save lives.
- Astronomers seek new planets and stars, expanding our understanding of the universe.
Origin of 'seek'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'sฤcan', which means to seek, search, or inquire.
- In Middle English, it was spelled 'seken', showing its long history in the English language.
- Related words in other languages, like 'suchen' in German, show the idea of searching is common across cultures.
The word 'seek' has origins in Old English 'sฤcan', meaning 'to go in search of'. Over time, it has evolved to encompass various meanings related to searching, pursuing, or striving for something. The concept of seeking has been integral to human behavior and exploration throughout history, driving individuals to discover new territories, ideas, and experiences.