What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
search
Example
I need to search for my keys, I can't find them anywhere. [search: verb]
Example
The police conducted a search of the suspect's house for any evidence. [search: noun]
seek
Example
I seek your advice on this matter. [seek: verb]
Example
She decided to seek a new job with better pay. [seek: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Search is more common than seek in everyday language, especially in contexts related to finding lost items or conducting investigations. Seek is less common but can be used in formal contexts such as business or academic writing.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between search and seek?
Seek is generally considered more formal than search and is often used in professional or academic settings. Search is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.