search for someone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "search for someone" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of looking for a specific person, whether in a physical or digital context. Example: "I need to search for someone who can help me with this project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

No, he didn't want to search for someone else.

The New Yorker

Transceivers send and receive radio signals, allowing rescuers to search for someone buried in the snow.

The New York Times - Travel

When she got to the site she decided to search for someone she might like.

The New York Times - Style

It vindicates the search for someone special – and warns that it's loopy.

The Guardian - Film

His story is a desperate search for someone to help his son.

The New York Times

Carrie's been driven by her search for someone to spend her life with.

The New York Times - Style

Then that candidate may begin the search for someone who will be a compatible running mate.

The New York Times

LAST winter, school administrators in Hopewell began a search for someone to teach physics and chemistry.

The New York Times

-- and the search for someone who will generate this redemption," Mr. Lawless said.

The New York Times

You could enter your own name as a survivor or search for someone else.

The New York Times - Tech

For life is not just a search for tennis courts; it is also a search for someone to play with.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "search for someone" in formal writing, consider whether a more precise verb like 'recruit', 'investigate', or 'identify' would be more appropriate to convey the specific nature of the search.

Common error

While acceptable, overuse of "search for someone" can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "look for", or rephrasing the sentence to use more descriptive verbs.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "search for someone" functions as a verb phrase, typically acting as the predicate in a sentence. It describes the action of trying to locate a specific individual. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

18%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Science

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "search for someone" is a commonly used verb phrase that describes the action of trying to find a person. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English. The phrase is versatile, appearing frequently in news and media, as well as in encyclopedic and wiki contexts. While "search for someone" is generally acceptable, it is important to consider more precise language depending on the context and to avoid overuse. Alternatives like "look for someone" or "seek out someone" may provide a more nuanced meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

look for a person

A direct synonym, simpler and more common in everyday language.

try to find someone

Focuses on the effort involved in the search.

seek out a person

Emphasizes a proactive and intentional search.

seek an individual

More formal alternative, emphasizing a deliberate and purposeful search.

locate a person

Emphasizes the successful finding of someone.

hunt for somebody

Implies a more intensive and determined search.

track down an individual

Suggests locating someone who may be difficult to find.

scout for someone

Suggests looking for someone with specific qualities or skills.

pursue an acquaintance

Indicates active following and interest.

fish for compliments

Here 'fish' indicates trying to receive attention, distinct from literal searching.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "search for someone"?

You can use alternatives like "look for someone", "seek out someone", or "try to find someone" depending on the context.

How do I use "search for someone" in a sentence?

The phrase "search for someone" is used to describe the act of trying to find a specific person. For example, "The police continue to search for someone matching the suspect's description."

Is it correct to say "searching for someone" instead of "search for someone"?

Yes, "searching for someone" is the present participle form and is perfectly acceptable. It often implies an ongoing action, while "search for someone" can be more general.

What's the difference between "look for someone" and "search for someone"?

"Look for someone" is a more general and casual way of saying you are trying to find someone. "Search for someone" suggests a more thorough and deliberate effort.