seeking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seeking" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a desire to find or obtain something, such as information, assistance, or opportunities. Example: "I am seeking advice on how to improve my writing skills."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Migrants who have permission to be in the UK are avoiding seeking vital medical treatment for fear of being arrested, a charity has warned.

The Guardian

It said: [Evraz] is seeking approval...of the holders of the notes to remove a covenant requiring the company to maintain the net leverage ratio at or below a specified level.

The Guardian - Business

In a speech setting out the government package to deter so-called benefit tourism, Cameron will say EU migrants can only continue to claim jobseekers allowance if they have been continuously actively seeking work and have a realistic imminent prospect of finding a job.

The Guardian

Speaking to the committee, Mitchell said he was looking at how other European development finance institutions operated and was seeking to make CDC "the best DFI in the world".

The Guardian

Rebel commanders are seeking assurances from Washington that if they sign a peace deal with the Colombian government, the United States will not be an obstacle to implementing agreements reached at the table.

The Guardian

The French champions are seeking a successor to Carlo Ancelotti, who is to take up the reins at Real Madrid along with his coaching staff, having steered the French club to their first league title in 19 years and the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

The Guardian - Sport

"Even though Mr Sajid said he didn't commit to a time limit, we are seeking to gain a relationship.

The Guardian

Authorities were seeking a warrant to search the computer, he said.

The Guardian

Lawyers for the two men appeared in the federal court in Sydney on Friday seeking to have the notices declared invalid and cancelled.

The Guardian

The research also highlights the contradiction of governments seeking to maximise their nation's fossil fuel extraction, as in the UK, while simultaneously pledging to limit global warming to 2C.

The Guardian

That means standing down in his Yeovil constituency next time and seeking 'a last challenge'.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seeking" when you want to convey a sense of purpose and intent in finding something, whether it's information, assistance, or an opportunity. It adds a touch of formality and seriousness to your writing.

Common error

While "seeking" is a perfectly valid word, avoid using it excessively in casual conversations or informal writing. Alternatives like "looking for" or "trying to find" often sound more natural in those settings.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "seeking" is as a verb, specifically the present participle of the verb "seek". Ludwig's examples demonstrate its usage in describing an ongoing action or state of searching or attempting to find something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "seeking" functions as a verb used to describe the act of searching or trying to obtain something. Ludwig AI indicates that it's grammatically correct and very common, particularly in news and business contexts. While widely applicable, it is best suited for neutral to formal communication. For casual settings, consider alternatives like "looking for". Remember to use "seeking" directly followed by the object of the search, avoiding unnecessary prepositions like "for". This will ensure clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

looking for

This alternative is a more common and informal way to express the act of trying to find someone or something.

searching for

Implies a more thorough and deliberate attempt to find something, often involving exploration.

trying to find

A straightforward and direct way of expressing the act of attempting to locate something.

pursuing

Suggests a determined effort to achieve a goal or objective.

aiming for

Focuses on the intended outcome or target of the effort.

striving for

Emphasizes the effort and dedication involved in reaching a particular aim.

in quest of

A more formal and literary way to describe a search, often for something abstract or valuable.

attempting to obtain

Focuses on the goal of acquiring or getting something, rather than just finding it.

soliciting

Implies asking for something, such as advice, support, or donations.

requesting

A formal way of asking for something, often used in official contexts.

FAQs

How to use "seeking" in a sentence?

You can use "seeking" to describe the act of searching or attempting to find something, for example: "The company is seeking qualified candidates for the job." or "They are "seeking advice" from experts in the field".

What can I say instead of "seeking"?

You can use alternatives like "looking for", "searching for", or "trying to find" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "seeking advice" or "seeking for advice"?

"Seeking advice" is the correct form. The preposition "for" is unnecessary and grammatically incorrect in this context. You are "seeking" something directly, not "seeking for" it.

What's the difference between "seeking" and "searching"?

"Seeking" generally implies a directed effort to find something, whether tangible or intangible, while "searching" often suggests a more general or exploratory process. For example, you might be "seeking employment" but "searching the house" for your keys.