to seek knowledge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to seek knowledge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the pursuit of learning or understanding in various contexts, such as education, personal growth, or professional development. Example: "Many philosophers throughout history have emphasized the importance of to seek knowledge as a lifelong endeavor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

Asked about the Mourides' travels, the grand caliph said, "Some go to seek knowledge; others go to seek material wealth".

The New York Times

I imagined people like Rollerball Rocco coming to seek knowledge over this awful food in this awful setting".

Independent

Our humanity is most clearly defined by the diversity of tributaries down which we paddle to seek knowledge.

The Economist

America fears what it doesn't know, yet lazily refuses to seek knowledge of the "other" to allay its irrational fears.

The New York Times

While personal revelation is an excellent way to know whom we love, it is an abysmal way to seek knowledge about the universe.

The New York Times

In one of the sermons to his followers, he kept it apolitical, advising them as "brothers and sisters" to seek knowledge and "don't chant slogans about it".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

For agencies devoted to seeking knowledge, NSF and NIH have shown strikingly little curiosity about many of the scientists doing the research they support.

Science Magazine

We have the ability to actively seek knowledge and understanding.

Huffington Post

To proactively seek knowledge I use social media like Twitter, LinkedIn, and Google alerts, and now, Google+.

Huffington Post

Don't keep a grudge on any of them and just say one thing to them: "I seek knowledge.

WikiHow

When a purchase decision needs to be made, we seek knowledge, we pull from those we deem as credible experts.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to seek knowledge" to emphasize a deliberate and active pursuit of information, understanding, or wisdom, especially in formal or philosophical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "to seek knowledge" in a passive voice. Instead of saying "Knowledge is sought," actively state who is seeking the knowledge to maintain clarity and impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to seek knowledge" functions primarily as an infinitive phrase, often used to express the purpose or intention behind an action. It aligns with Ludwig's assessment of the phrase's grammatical correctness and usability, evidenced by examples showcasing diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

36%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Wiki

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to seek knowledge" serves as an infinitive phrase that denotes a purposeful pursuit of learning and comprehension. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for use in various contexts. While "to seek knowledge" is not exceedingly common, it carries a sense of intent and formality. Related phrases, such as "to pursue learning" or "to acquire wisdom", offer nuanced alternatives for expressing this pursuit. The phrase's function is frequently observed in news, media, and scientific domains, while the most authoritative sources includes The New York Times and The Economist. Remember that, in order to maximize clarity and impact, use actively the phrase and avoid the passive voice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to pursue learning

Emphasizes the active effort of learning.

to acquire wisdom

Focuses on gaining deeper understanding and insight.

to gain understanding

Highlights the development of comprehension.

to investigate further

Implies a detailed and thorough inquiry.

to delve into studies

Suggests a deep immersion in academic subjects.

to expand horizons

Focuses on broadening one's intellectual scope.

to explore ideas

Highlights the investigation of different concepts.

to learn and grow

Combines the concepts of acquiring knowledge and personal development.

to enrich one's mind

Emphasizes the improvement of intellectual capacity.

to broaden the mind

Similar to expanding horizons, but with a focus on open-mindedness.

FAQs

How can I use "to seek knowledge" in a sentence?

Use "to seek knowledge" when you want to express the intent or action of actively pursuing information or understanding. For example, "Students often travel far and wide to seek knowledge in specialized fields".

What are some alternatives to "to seek knowledge"?

You can use alternatives like "to pursue learning", "to acquire wisdom", or "to gain understanding" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "seek knowledge" or "to seek knowledge"?

Both are correct, but "to seek knowledge" is an infinitive phrase and is typically used within a larger sentence structure to express purpose or intention. "Seek knowledge" can be used as a direct imperative.

What is the difference between "to seek knowledge" and "to gain knowledge"?

"To seek knowledge" emphasizes the process of searching for information, while "to gain knowledge" emphasizes the result of acquiring that information. One focuses on the journey, the other on the destination.