A1verb1K

Find

UK /["/faɪnd/","/faɪndz/","/faʊnd/","/ˈfaɪndɪŋ/"]/US /["/faɪnd/","/faɪndz/","/faʊnd/","/ˈfaɪndɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to discover somebody/something unexpectedly or by chance

In simple words: to discover something or someone

Examples

  • I need to find my keys before we leave.
  • Can you find the answer to this question?
  • She always tries to find a solution to every problem.
  • I can find that book at the library.
  • They hope to find a way to improve their project.
  • He managed to find a new job after several applications.

Usage notes

Use 'find' in everyday situations when you locate something, like your keys. Avoid using it in very formal writing; instead, consider 'discover' or 'locate'.

Grammar pattern

find + object

Memory hint

Think of a treasure hunt—when you 'find' treasure, you discover something valuable.

Collocations

  • find a solution
  • find the truth
  • find your way
  • find common ground
  • find something interesting

Synonyms

  • locate
  • discover
  • unearth
  • identify
  • determine

Antonyms

  • lose
  • misplace

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'find out' which means to learn information
  • Using the wrong preposition like 'find with' instead of 'find by'
  • Incorrectly using it in past tense, forgetting the 'found'