B2verb2K

Seek

UK /["/siːk/","/siːks/","/sɔːt/","/ˈsiːkɪŋ/"]/US /["/siːk/","/siːks/","/sɔːt/","/ˈsiːkɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to look for something/somebody

In simple words: To look for something or try to find it.

Examples

  • I need to seek help from a professional for my anxiety.
  • She decided to seek a new job after feeling unfulfilled in her current position.
  • The team will seek solutions to the ongoing issues in the project.
  • He sought to seek out the truth about the incident.
  • Young explorers often seek adventure in the wilderness.
  • The students were told to seek out resources for their research.
  • He plans to seek knowledge through various online courses.
  • The detective had to seek every possible lead to solve the case.

Usage notes

Use 'seek' in formal or neutral contexts. It is not common in everyday conversations. Instead, you might say 'look for'. Avoid using it in very casual situations.

Grammar pattern

seek + object

Memory hint

Think of 'seek' as 'seek and you shall find'. Imagine someone searching for treasure.

Collocations

  • aggressively
  • avidly
  • eagerly
  • continue to
  • for
  • in
  • highly sought after

Synonyms

  • attempt

Antonyms

  • ignore
  • neglect
  • overlook

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'look for' — 'seek' is more formal.
  • Using 'seek' without an object — it usually needs something to seek.
  • Mixing 'seek' with 'find' — they have different meanings.