embark on a search

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "embark on a search" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing the beginning of a quest or investigation for something, whether it be physical or metaphorical. Example: "After months of planning, we decided to embark on a search for the lost city of Atlantis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Mr. Pandit, meanwhile, said that Citigroup would embark on a search to choose Mr. Calio's successor.

The New York Times

The three detectives then embark on a search to uncover the origin of this and other mysterious artifacts — and decipher the meaning of the terrorist's claim.

The New York Times - Books

"Most people won't embark on a search because they think of the travel and cost, and they have difficulty doing the research.

The New York Times

Donation pledges are down by more than half at the very moment that church elders must embark on a search to find a new pastor and an associate pastor.

The New York Times

Failures and missteps may enliven a text, but too often The Lost Village feels as though it should be subtitled "In Search of a Way to Embark on a Search".

The Guardian - Books

But Faulkner has defended Villa's methods despite them having to embark on a search for another manager.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Investors embark on a frenzied search for the next hot offering; venture capitalists see an exit for their existing investments and begin lining them up to go public; and entrepreneurs, seeing the coffers of the VCs finally open again, quick gather teams and prepare business plans to make their own dreams a reality.

Forbes

Prompted by his wife, he embarks on a search for the "invisible scaffolding to his life".

The New Yorker

Mr. Mayer embarked on a search for creative ways to use that space.

The New York Times

That spring, they embarked on a search for a place of their own.

The New York Times

As the title suggests, she embarks on a search for happiness that involves pharmaceuticals and Mexican fast food.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "embark on a search" when you want to convey a sense of purpose and determination in starting an investigation or exploration. It adds a touch of formality and commitment to the action.

Common error

Avoid using "embark on a search" in very casual or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "start searching" or "begin looking for" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "embark on a search" is that of a verb phrase acting as the predicate of a sentence. It describes the action of starting an investigative process. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "embark on a search" is a grammatically correct and usable English expression that signifies the commencement of an investigative or exploratory endeavor. As supported by Ludwig AI, its usage spans across various contexts, including news, science, and general writing, although it is more frequently encountered in formal and neutral settings. While the phrase conveys a sense of purpose and determination, it should be used judiciously in informal contexts where simpler alternatives might be more appropriate. Authoritative sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian frequently employ the phrase. Semantic alternatives include "begin a search" and "start a search", which offer similar meanings with varying degrees of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

begin a search

This alternative uses a more common verb, "begin", instead of "embark", making it slightly less formal.

start a search

Similar to "begin a search", this option replaces "embark" with "start", offering a simpler and more direct expression.

initiate a search

Replaces "embark" with "initiate", suggesting a more formal and official commencement of the search.

undertake a search

Using "undertake" in place of "embark" implies a deliberate and serious approach to the search.

launch a search

Replaces "embark" with "launch", conveying a sense of initiating something significant or extensive.

commence a search

Similar to "initiate", "commence" offers a more formal tone than "embark", emphasizing the beginning of the search.

set out on a search

This alternative provides a more narrative or descriptive feel, focusing on the act of starting a journey or endeavor.

pursue an investigation

Shifts the focus to the investigative aspect of the search, implying a more formal and structured inquiry.

conduct an inquiry

Similar to "pursue an investigation", this option emphasizes the formal investigation process.

delve into an exploration

This alternative suggests a deeper, more exploratory approach to finding something.

FAQs

How can I use "embark on a search" in a sentence?

You can use "embark on a search" to describe the beginning of an exploration or investigation. For example, "The team will "embark on a search" for new talent to join the company".

What phrases are similar to "embark on a search"?

Similar phrases include "begin a search", "start a search", or "initiate a search", each carrying a slightly different tone.

Is it correct to say "embark in a search" instead of "embark on a search"?

No, the correct preposition to use with "embark" in this context is "on". Therefore, "embark on a search" is the correct phrasing.

What is the difference between "embark on a search" and "go on a search"?

"Embark on a search" suggests a more formal or deliberate undertaking than "go on a search", which is more casual. "Embark" implies a planned start, whereas "go on" is more general.