seeking something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seeking something" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a desire or search for a particular object, idea, or outcome. Example: "She has been seeking something meaningful in her life ever since she graduated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Seeking something sporty?

The New York Times

"I think Kitaru is honestly seeking something," I went on.

The New Yorker

Both writers are seeking something distinctive about their chosen places.

The Economist

Were they seeking something more like "Precious?" No.

The New York Times

She is seeking something reliable and easy to use.

The New York Times

Anyone seeking something lavish and illustrated is spoiled for choice.

Independent

If his characters are lost, they are also seeking something.

The Guardian

I had come to Toronto seeking something cool.

The New York Times - Travel

He travelled through Europe and India on a false passport, "seeking something," sending occasional postcards.

The New Yorker

Whatever Esalen may become, people seeking something are still gravitating here.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

For the others class, we used the keywords of the seeking-something and conceptual classes.

Journal of the Brazilian Computer Society

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the tone of your writing. "Seeking something" can convey a sense of purpose or determination. For more casual contexts, alternatives like "looking for something" might be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "seeking something" in situations where the object of the search is too abstract or undefined. Be specific about what is being sought to provide clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seeking something" primarily functions as a verb phrase, where "seeking" is a present participle acting as a verb and "something" serves as its object. This construction describes an active state of searching or desiring, often with an unspecified goal. As shown in the Ludwig examples, it is a perfectly valid and grammatically sound form.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

94%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "seeking something" is a versatile and grammatically correct expression used to convey the act of searching or desiring an unspecified object, idea, or outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used in various contexts, particularly in news and media. Its neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal communication. When using "seeking something", ensure clarity by specifying the object of the search or desire whenever possible. While alternatives like "looking for something" and "searching for something" exist, "seeking something" carries a slightly more formal tone. Avoid the common mistake of adding "for" after "seeking". Overall, this phrase is a valuable tool for expressing a proactive approach to fulfilling needs and aspirations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

looking for something

Changes the verb from "seeking" to the more common and general "looking for", implying a less formal search.

searching for something

Substitutes "seeking" with "searching", which is a more direct and common synonym.

in search of something

Replaces the verb with a prepositional phrase, emphasizing the act of searching.

trying to find something

More explicitly states the attempt to locate or discover something.

pursuing something

Implies a more active and determined effort to obtain or achieve something.

desiring something

Focuses on the desire or wish for something, rather than the active search.

on the lookout for something

Implies a vigilant and watchful search for something specific.

wanting something

A simpler and more direct expression of wanting or needing something.

aiming for something

Suggests a specific goal or target that one is trying to achieve.

yearning for something

Expresses a deep and often emotional longing for something.

FAQs

How can I use "seeking something" in a sentence?

You can use "seeking something" to describe a desire or search for an object, idea, or outcome. For instance, "She is "seeking something meaningful" in her life", or "He is "seeking something new" to learn".

What are some alternatives to "seeking something"?

Alternatives include "looking for something", "searching for something", or "in search of something". The choice depends on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it better to say "seeking something" or "seeking for something"?

"Seeking something" is the correct form. The preposition "for" is unnecessary and grammatically incorrect in this context. Always omit "for" after "seeking".

What's the difference between "seeking something" and "wanting something"?

"Seeking something" implies an active effort to find or obtain something, whereas "wanting something" simply expresses a desire. "Seeking" suggests a more proactive approach.