What context can I use each word in?

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

find

Example

I can't find my keys anywhere. [find: verb]

Example

I was surprised to find a $20 bill on the sidewalk. [find: verb]

Example

I need to find out what time the movie starts. [find out: phrasal verb]

locate

Example

The GPS helped us locate the restaurant. [locate: verb]

Example

The police were able to locate the missing child. [locate: verb]

Example

Can you locate the source of the noise? [locate: verb]

Definitions of find and locate

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Key differences and similarities of find and locate

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Good things to know

Which word is more common?

Find is more commonly used in everyday language than locate. Find is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while locate is more specific and formal.

What’s the difference in the tone of formality between find and locate?

Locate is more formal than find. It is often used in professional or academic settings, while find is more casual and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.