launch a search

USAGE SUMMARY

"launch a search" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to initiating a search for something, either online or in person. For example, "I'm going to launch a search for the perfect birthday gift for my mom."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

The company said yesterday that it would "launch a search for a new C.E.O.

The New York Times

The New York Times Company said that it intends to launch a search for a new chief executive and it will seek qualified candidates both internally and externally.

The Guardian

Monday 14 May: Police launch a search at the Portuguese home of a British expatriate, Robert Murat, 100 yards from where Madeleine disappeared.

The Guardian

The inquiry found that Italian and Maltese authorities failed to launch a search and rescue operation, and Nato military vessels patrolling in the area to enforce the Libyan arms embargo did not respond.

Independent

The Guardian Culture Pros Network has teamed up once again with the annual Museums + Heritage Awards to launch a search for the UK's most inspiring museum or heritage visitor attraction of the past year.

The Guardian

Archaeologists are to launch a search on Holy Island in Northumberland for the monastery where one of the most beautiful books in western Europe, the Lindisfarne Gospels, was made.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

The foreign affairs ministers had reportedly said they would not actively search for the migrants but on Thursday Malaysia's premier, Najib Razak, ordered the navy and maritime officials to launch a search-and-rescue mission for the boat people.

The Guardian

The disappearance of the plane prompted officials to launch a search-and-rescue effort that swelled to include six teams and about 50 sheriff's reserve deputies and volunteers, Navarro-Suarez said.

Los Angeles Times

Police have launched a search but do not suspect foul play.

Independent

Police launched a search following a call at 10am on Sunday.

The Guardian

Presidential guards have launched a search for Diakite and members of his family.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To add impact, specify the scale or intensity of the search. For example, "launch a comprehensive search" or "launch a global search".

Common error

While "launch a search" is perfectly acceptable in many contexts, consider simpler alternatives like "start searching" or "look for" in casual conversations or informal writing to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "launch a search" functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun, indicating the initiation of an action. It's used to express the start of a deliberate effort to find something or someone, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "launch a search" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe the initiation of an effort to find something or someone. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s suitable for various contexts, though primarily found in news and media, and formal business settings. While simpler alternatives like "start a search" exist for informal use, "launch a search" effectively conveys a deliberate and organized undertaking. When using this phrase, consider the specific context and audience to ensure the tone is appropriate and the message is clear.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initiate a search

A more formal and precise alternative, suitable for official or technical contexts.

begin a search

A straightforward and common alternative, suggesting a simple start to the search process.

commence a search

Similar to 'initiate', but slightly more formal, often used in official announcements.

start a search

A simpler, more informal way to express the beginning of a search.

undertake a search

Suggests a more involved or serious approach to the search activity.

conduct a search

Implies a systematic and organized approach to the search process.

embark on a search

Emphasizes the beginning of a possibly lengthy or challenging search.

mount a search

Suggests a focused and potentially large-scale search effort.

set about searching

Indicates an intention to begin searching in a deliberate manner.

instigate a search

Suggests initiating a search due to a specific need or problem.

FAQs

What does "launch a search" mean?

The phrase "launch a search" means to begin a systematic and organized effort to find something or someone. It implies a deliberate and often formal initiation of a search process.

How can I use "launch a search" in a sentence?

You can use "launch a search" in sentences like: "The company decided to launch a search for a new marketing director." or "Police will launch a search for the missing hiker tomorrow morning."

What are some alternatives to "launch a search"?

Alternatives to "launch a search" include "initiate a search", "begin a search", or "start a search". The best choice depends on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it better to say "launch a search" or "start a search"?

"Launch a search" and "start a search" are both correct, but "launch a search" is slightly more formal. Use "launch a search" in professional or official contexts, and "start a search" in more casual settings.