to seek solace

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to seek solace" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a desire to find comfort or relief from distress or sadness. Example: "After the loss of her pet, she often went for long walks in the park to seek solace in nature."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

That is another reason for the beleaguered incumbents to seek solace in each other's embrace.

The Economist

After a turbulent childhood in war-time Serbia, he seems to seek solace in religious practices.

The New York Times

Does economic hardship drive people to seek solace in firearms, God and xenophobia?

The New York Times

Surrounded by white lilies and flickering candles, about 2,000 mourners gathered to seek solace in words spoken and sung.

The New York Times

To tumble into political oblivion is heart-rending, and McGovern has had to seek solace where he can.

The Guardian

For the reason we watch Downton is to seek solace in a glorious past while trying to cope with the crises of the present.

The Guardian - Opinion

He predicted that presidents "will less and less have reason to seek solace in foreign relations from the piled-up frustrations of home affairs.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

For while the sight and scent of a rose might be a potent memory trigger, an abiding sense that the garden is a pleasant space to ponder or seek solace – long after the rose has faded – is ultimately more important.

Independent

Every time something bad happens to me, I seek solace in the McRib.

Huffington Post

It's as if, in a world we know to be chaotic, we seek solace from plays that appear to make the world straightforward.

The Guardian

"It has made me proud, to know that in my way I am adding information that will allow a more beautiful, restful habitat to be added here, a place to express grief and seek solace," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to seek solace", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is providing the comfort or relief. For example, specify whether one is seeking solace in nature, religion, or relationships.

Common error

Avoid using "to seek solace" in trivial situations. This phrase is best reserved for scenarios involving genuine distress or emotional turmoil, not everyday inconveniences.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to seek solace" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose. Ludwig confirms its usability. It typically follows a main clause to indicate why someone is performing an action, highlighting their intent to find comfort or relief from distress.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to seek solace" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression, as validated by Ludwig. It functions as an infinitive phrase expressing the purpose of finding comfort or relief from distress, commonly appearing in news, media, and academic contexts. While generally neutral, its formality can vary based on usage. When employing this phrase, clarity in specifying the source of comfort is crucial, while avoiding its use in trivial situations is advisable. Alternatives such as "to find comfort" or "to look for consolation" offer nuanced options for expressing similar sentiments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to find comfort

Focuses on the act of obtaining comfort, rather than the active search for it.

to look for consolation

Implies a more formal or profound sense of loss or grief.

to search for relief

Highlights the desire to alleviate pain or distress.

to turn to for comfort

Emphasizes reliance on a specific source of comfort.

to take refuge

Suggests finding safety and protection, often in a physical place or activity.

to seek refuge

Suggests finding safety and protection, often in a physical place or activity.

to find peace

Focuses on achieving a state of tranquility and calm.

to escape

Implies avoiding something unpleasant, often by withdrawing into oneself or another activity.

to distract oneself

Highlights the act of diverting attention from negative feelings.

to numb the pain

Suggests a desire to suppress or eliminate emotional suffering.

FAQs

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

You can use "to seek solace" to describe someone actively trying to find comfort during a difficult time. For example, "After a long day, she likes "to seek solace" in a good book".

What are some alternatives to "to seek solace"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "to find comfort", "to look for consolation", or "to search for relief".

Is it appropriate to use "to seek solace" in formal writing?

Yes, "to seek solace" is appropriate for formal writing. However, consider the specific nuance you want to convey and whether a more direct alternative like "to find comfort" might be more suitable.

What is the difference between "to seek solace" and "to find solace"?

"To seek solace" implies an active search for comfort, while "to find solace" suggests that comfort is discovered or encountered. The former emphasizes the effort, the latter the result.