seek out

USAGE SUMMARY

"seek out" is a valid phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to express the idea of searching for or looking for something. For example, "I will seek out the best deal on plane tickets when I plan my vacation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science & Research

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Butterflies seek out alpine flowers.

The Economist

They seek out records.

The Guardian - Books

Seek out and enjoy.

The Guardian - Opinion

Seek out collaboration.

Science Magazine

Seek out credits.

Forbes

3. Seek out uniqueness.

TechCrunch

And seek out alternatives.

Los Angeles Times

2. Seek out support.

Huffington Post

James: Seek out mentors.

Huffington Post

Seek out joy.

Huffington Post

Always seek out context.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seek out" when you want to emphasize a deliberate and intentional search for something, rather than a casual or accidental discovery.

Common error

In very informal settings, simpler alternatives like "look for" or "find" might be more appropriate. "Seek out" can sometimes sound overly formal or pretentious if used in everyday conversation.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "seek out" is that of a transitive phrasal verb. Ludwig AI confirms its usage as a way to express the act of searching for or trying to find something, as demonstrated in various examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

33%

Science & Research

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "seek out" is a versatile phrasal verb used to describe a deliberate and intentional search. As Ludwig AI clarifies, its use is grammatically sound and prevalent across diverse contexts, including news, science, and general knowledge resources. While simpler alternatives exist, "seek out" is especially effective when you need to emphasize the focused nature of the search. To avoid sounding overly formal, consider the context and opt for more casual synonyms like "look for" in informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

search for

This alternative is more general and doesn't necessarily imply a determined effort.

look for

This is a basic synonym that is less formal.

hunt for

This implies a more intense and active search.

pursue

This suggests a more persistent and determined search.

track down

This implies finding something that is difficult to locate.

ferret out

This suggests uncovering something hidden or secret.

scout for

This implies searching for something with a specific purpose, like talent or opportunities.

fish for

This is often used when trying to subtly obtain information or compliments.

go in search of

More descriptive and elaborate, adding a sense of adventure.

make a search for

A more formal and elaborate way of saying "search for".

FAQs

How to use "seek out" in a sentence?

"Seek out" is a phrasal verb meaning to look for something specific. For example, you might "seek out" expert advice or "seek out" new opportunities.

What can I say instead of "seek out"?

You can use alternatives like "search for", "look for", or "pursue" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "seek out" or "seeking out"?

"Seek out" is the base form, while "seeking out" is the present participle. Use "seeking out" in continuous tenses, such as "I am seeking out new information".

What is the difference between "seek out" and "look for"?

"Seek out" implies a more intentional and determined search than "look for". You "seek out" something specific, while you might "look for" anything in general.