in seeking to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in seeking to" is a grammatically correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is usually used to introduce an explanation or a rationale for why someone is doing something. For example: "In seeking to reduce costs, the company implemented a hiring freeze."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Or in seeking to incorporate renewable energy?

The New York Times

In seeking to assert my moral superiority, I enabled Hannity.

The New York Times - Magazine

"She was very aggressive in seeking to buy up property.

The New York Times - Books

Hytner didn't mess around in seeking to answer it.

The Guardian

Texas is not alone in seeking to thwart sanctuary policies.

The New York Times

I have pursued all due diligence in seeking to contact next-of-kin.

Yale University

Experience has its merits; but in seeking to replace one system with another, youth was key.

The Economist

In seeking to control appointments to Castilian sees, Isabella was not simply inspired by national sentiments.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A criticism, however, is that in seeking to display strength, she has revealed weakness.

Independent

If Ava killed him it would be accidental, in seeking to stanch her emotional hungers.

The New Yorker

In seeking to humanize the suits, Carter portrays them as... suits.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in seeking to" when you want to clearly express the purpose behind an action or decision. It adds a layer of intention and direction to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "in seeking to" in overly casual or informal contexts. Simpler phrases like "to" or "by trying to" might be more appropriate for everyday conversation or less formal writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in seeking to" functions as an introductory phrase indicating purpose or intent. It sets the stage for the action or goal that follows, explaining the reason or motivation behind it. Ludwig shows numerous examples confirming its role in expressing intentionality.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

14%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in seeking to" is a versatile and grammatically sound construction used to introduce the purpose or intention behind an action. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's a correct and usable part of English, adding a layer of intentionality to writing. Its frequency is "very common", especially in "news & media" and "academic" contexts, pointing to its suitability for formal and professional communication. While alternatives like "in order to" and "with the aim of" exist, "in seeking to" offers a nuanced way to express a determined pursuit of a specific goal. When using the phrase, consider the register and context to ensure it aligns with the overall tone and formality of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in striving to

Emphasizes effort and determination, suggesting a more active pursuit.

in attempting to

Highlights the act of trying, potentially implying uncertainty of success.

with the aim of

More formal and explicit in stating the intended outcome.

in order to

Classic expression of purpose. More concise and direct.

so as to

Formal and somewhat archaic, implying a specific goal.

with a view to

British English usage, indicating a future-oriented perspective.

desiring to

Highlights the internal wish or longing behind the action.

endeavoring to

Formal and emphasizes persistent effort towards a goal.

aspiring to

Implies a higher goal or ambition.

on a quest to

Suggests a longer or more arduous journey with a defined objective.

FAQs

How can I use "in seeking to" in a sentence?

The phrase "in seeking to" introduces the purpose of an action. For example, "In seeking to improve efficiency, the company invested in new technology."

What are some alternatives to "in seeking to"?

You can use alternatives like "in order to", "with the aim of", or "so as to" depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it better to use "in seeking to" or simply "to"?

While both are grammatically correct, "in seeking to" is more formal and emphasizes intention. Use "to" for simpler, less formal statements of purpose. Example: "To improve sales" vs. "In seeking to improve sales."

How does "in seeking to" differ from "attempting to"?

"In seeking to" emphasizes the overall goal or aim, while "attempting to" highlights the act of trying, which may or may not be successful. "In seeking to find a solution" suggests a broader effort than "attempting to find a solution", which focuses on the specific attempt.