ongoing search for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ongoing search for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a continuous effort to find something, whether it be information, solutions, or physical objects. Example: "The ongoing search for a cure for the disease has led to significant advancements in medical research."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Her career was an ongoing search for the right part, the right direction.

The Guardian - Opinion

My ongoing search for prisons did not sit well with either of them.

The New Yorker

Recently, there has been an intense ongoing search for suitable cell sources for vascular tissue engineering.

Annals of Vascular Surgery

There is an ongoing search for the best learning and teaching models in clinical education.

Nurse Education in Practice

The New Yorker, April 24 , 1995P. 78 REPORT FROM VIETNAM about the ongoing search for MIA/POW remains.

The New Yorker

Throughout Bradwell's tenure there was an ongoing search for a permanent home for the company in Hull.

The Guardian

It is proof of both the efficacy of classroom RE and the ongoing search for meaning among young people.

The Guardian

The academics were discussing Leslie Shakespere, a potential candidate in their ongoing search for a new director of the Foundation.

The New Yorker

Superintendent Ian John said he could not rule out the ongoing search for April would extend into 2013.

Independent

He seeks the living center of human concern as it emerges in the ongoing search for nature's secrets.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Matheson's pacey fantasy charts its protagonist's solitary war against Earth's new inhabitants and his yearning, ongoing search for a fellow survivor.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ongoing search for", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being searched for and why the search is continuing. Be specific to enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "ongoing search for" with overly broad or undefined objects. For example, instead of saying "the ongoing search for improvement", specify what improvements are being sought, such as "the ongoing search for improved efficiency in manufacturing processes."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ongoing search for" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a continuous or sustained effort to find or discover something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

39%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ongoing search for" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a sustained effort to find or discover something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, it conveys a sense of continuity and persistence. Alternatives such as "continuous quest for" or "persistent pursuit of" can be used to vary phrasing, although "ongoing search for" effectively communicates the intended message. When using this phrase, it's important to be specific about what is being searched for to ensure clarity. Its frequent use across authoritative sources underscores its reliability and appropriateness in various written contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

continuous quest for

Emphasizes a determined and prolonged effort, framing the search as a journey.

persistent pursuit of

Highlights the unwavering dedication and effort put into the search.

sustained investigation into

Implies a more formal and methodical approach to uncovering information.

ceaseless exploration for

Conveys the idea of an unending journey in search of something.

unrelenting hunt for

Emphasizes the determined and forceful nature of the search.

incessant examination of

Suggests a detailed and continuous scrutiny in the process of searching.

never-ending quest for

Similar to "continuous quest", but emphasizes the perceived lack of a final resolution.

unflagging expedition for

Implies a dedicated and energetic mission to locate something.

constant surveillance for

Highlights the vigilance and continuous monitoring involved in the search.

extended reconnaissance of

Suggests a careful and prolonged observation process.

FAQs

How can I use "ongoing search for" in a sentence?

You can use "ongoing search for" to describe a continuous effort to find something. For example, "The police have an ongoing search for the missing person" or "The company is in an ongoing search for new markets".

What's a good alternative to "ongoing search for"?

Alternatives include "continuous quest for", "persistent pursuit of", or "sustained investigation into" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "ongoing search" or "continuing search"?

"Ongoing search" and "continuing search" are often interchangeable, but "ongoing search" implies a process that is already underway, while "continuing search" can suggest either a process that is currently happening or one that will happen in the future. Context determines the best choice.

When should I use "ongoing search for" instead of simply "search for"?

Use "ongoing search for" when you want to emphasize that the search is not a one-time event but a sustained, continuous effort. This is especially useful when the search has been happening for some time or is expected to continue into the future.