seeks to know

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seeks to know" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when someone is trying to find out information. For example, "Bob seeks to know the answer to the math problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

It seeks to know that grain of sand the way a lover seeks to know the face of the beloved.

The New York Times - Books

She seeks to know the cause of his concern; he demurs.

The New York Times

He never speaks to her nor seeks to know anything about her.

The Guardian - Books

It seeks to know not only what you like but what you appear to be looking for.

The Guardian - Books

The ultimate realities that the metaphysician seeks to know are precisely things as they are—simple and not variegated, exempt from change and therefore stable objects of knowledge.

Encyclopedia Britannica

According to Zoroastrian doctrine, because the prophet Zoroaster was, in a vision, conducted into the presence of Ahura Mazdā by Vohu Manah, any individual who seeks to know the Wise Lord must approach him through this immortal.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

By not knowing their 'label', and not seeking to know it, they could avoid the fear, shame, devaluation of themselves and the low expectations to future opportunities.

BMC Health Services Research

They know, or seek to know, how they love, who they love.

The Guardian - Film

But paradoxically, it is not the first book someone seeking to know Islam should read.

The New York Times - Books

Kazin grew up in a time and place when ardent young strivers sought to know and read everything.

The New York Times

This time around, in his letter, Senator Markey also sought to know how many times federal officials invoked Sec.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase, ensure that the object of knowledge is clearly defined. For example, "The researcher seeks to know the effects of the new drug".

Common error

Avoid using "seeks to know" in casual conversations or informal writing. Alternatives like "wants to find out" or "is trying to learn" are more appropriate for less formal situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seeks to know" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating an action or intention. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound for expressing the pursuit of knowledge. Examples show it used to describe efforts to learn, understand, or ascertain information.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

32%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "seeks to know" is a grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the act of attempting to gain knowledge or understanding. As Ludwig AI states, it is usable in written English when someone is trying to find out information. It is most frequently found in News & Media, Scientific and Encyclopedia sources, indicating a relatively formal register. While grammatically sound and widely accepted, it is important to consider the context and choose alternative phrasing for informal situations. The phrase is effective in conveying a deliberate and thoughtful pursuit of knowledge.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attempts to discover

This alternative uses stronger verbs emphasizing active effort to find out something.

aims to understand

Focuses on achieving comprehension rather than just knowing.

endeavors to learn

Implies a determined effort towards gaining knowledge.

is trying to find out

More informal and emphasizes the process of investigation.

wants to determine

Focuses on reaching a definite conclusion.

aspires to comprehend

Expresses a strong desire and ambition to fully understand something.

is looking to uncover

Suggests revealing something previously hidden or unknown.

desires to ascertain

Implies a formal and precise attempt to establish something as fact.

searches for insight

Focuses on gaining a deeper, more intuitive understanding.

strives for enlightenment

Implies an active and earnest effort to gain deeper insight or understanding.

FAQs

How can I use "seeks to know" in a sentence?

You can use "seeks to know" to describe a deliberate attempt to gain information or understanding. For instance, "The scientist "seeks to know" the origins of the universe".

What are some alternatives to "seeks to know"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases such as "attempts to discover", "aims to understand", or "is trying to find out".

When is it appropriate to use "seeks to know"?

"Seeks to know" is appropriate in formal writing, academic contexts, or when you want to convey a sense of deliberate inquiry. In informal settings, simpler alternatives might be better.

Is "seeking to know" different from "seeks to know"?

Yes, "seeking to know" is the present participle form, suggesting an ongoing effort, while "seeks to know" is the simple present tense, describing a general or habitual action. Therefore, "seeking to know" emphasizes the process, and ""seeks to know"" emphasizes the intention.