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To look for something, especially information on a computer.
Explanation at your level:
Hi there! Search is a word we use when we want to find something. Imagine you lost your favorite toy. You would search your room to find it! Or, if you want to see a funny video, you can search on the computer. It means to look very carefully for something.
The verb search means to look for something carefully. You can search for information online using a computer. For example, you might search for 'weather today' to see if it will rain. You can also search for things in your house, like looking for your keys. The noun form is also search, like 'a quick search' for a website.
To search means to look for something in a systematic way, often with the intention of finding specific information or an object. Online, we commonly search using search engines like Google. For instance, 'I need to search for flights to Paris.' Offline, you might search your neighborhood for a lost pet. The word implies a degree of effort and thoroughness in the looking process.
The verb search denotes a deliberate and often systematic investigation to find something or someone. It's frequently used in the context of digital information retrieval: 'Users search the database for relevant articles.' It can also refer to physical investigation, as in 'The detectives will search the premises.' The term implies more than casual looking; it suggests a focused effort to locate something specific, sometimes involving specialized tools or methods.
Search, as a verb, signifies a comprehensive and methodical inquiry, typically aimed at uncovering specific data, evidence, or items. In academic or technical contexts, it refers to the process of querying information systems: 'The algorithm performs an exhaustive search of the parameter space.' Beyond digital applications, it can imply a deep, often personal, quest: 'She embarked on a spiritual search for meaning.' The act of searching can range from a simple lookup to an extensive investigation.
The verb search encompasses a spectrum from rudimentary information retrieval to profound existential exploration. Etymologically rooted in the concept of 'going around,' it implies a thorough traversal of a domain, whether physical or abstract. In computing, it refers to algorithms designed to find specific nodes in data structures or states in problem spaces. Metaphorically, it can denote an introspective journey or a societal quest for truth or justice, often carrying connotations of significant effort and the potential for profound discovery or revelation.
Mot en 30 secondes
- Verb meaning to look for something, especially information.
- Commonly used with computers and the internet.
- Can be used physically (search a room) or metaphorically (search for meaning).
- Noun form is 'search'; common collocations include 'search engine' and 'search warrant'.
Hey there! Let's dive into the word search. It's a super common verb that means to look for something, especially information. Think about when you're curious about something, or you need to find a specific piece of data – that's when you search!
We often use search when we're using computers or the internet. For example, you might search Google for the weather, or search a shopping website for a new pair of shoes. It's all about actively looking and trying to find what you need.
But it's not just online! You can also search a room for your keys, or a librarian might search the catalog for a book. The core idea is a systematic and thorough look to discover something.
The word search has a long and interesting history! It comes from the Old French word cerchier, which meant 'to seek, look for, investigate'. And where did that come from? It's believed to be derived from the Vulgar Latin word circare, meaning 'to go around, traverse'.
This Latin root gives us a clue: the original idea of searching might have involved going around or exploring an area thoroughly. Imagine a detective carefully going through a crime scene, looking in every nook and cranny. That's the kind of thoroughness implied.
Over time, the word entered Middle English as serchen. It retained its meaning of seeking and investigating. With the advent of technology, especially computers and the internet, the meaning expanded to include the digital realm, becoming essential for how we find information today. It's fascinating how a word's meaning can evolve to fit new tools and concepts!
You'll find the word search used in tons of situations, both online and offline. When you're using a computer, you'll often search for something on a website, use a search engine (like Google or Bing), or perform a search query. These are all common collocations – words that frequently go together.
In everyday life, you might search your bag for your phone, search the fridge for something to eat, or search for a lost item. The verb can be used transitively (you search *something*) or intransitively (you search *for* something).
The formality can vary. Saying you're going to search for information online is neutral. If you're talking about a police officer conducting a search of a property, it's more formal and legal. It's a versatile word that fits many contexts!
Search is part of some great expressions! Here are a few:
- Search me: This is a casual way to say 'I don't know' or 'I have no idea'. It implies that even if you searched everywhere, you wouldn't find the answer. Example: 'Where did I put my keys?' 'Search me!'
- In search of: This means looking for something or someone. It often suggests a quest or a significant effort. Example: 'He spent years in search of ancient artifacts.'
- Search high and low: This means to look everywhere for something, with great effort. Example: 'We searched high and low for the missing cat.'
- Search party: A group of people organized to search for someone who is lost. Example: 'A search party was formed to find the hikers.'
- Search warrant: A legal document issued by a judge that authorizes law enforcement officers to search a specific location for specific evidence. Example: 'The police obtained a search warrant before entering the building.'
As a verb, search is regular. Its past tense and past participle are both searched. For example, 'Yesterday, I searched the web for recipes,' and 'I have searched everywhere for my glasses.' The present participle is searching.
The noun form is search (e.g., 'The police conducted a thorough search').
Pronunciation is straightforward: /sɜːrtʃ/ (UK) and /sɝtʃ/ (US). Notice the 'ch' sound at the end, like in 'church'. Common pronunciation errors might include mispronouncing the 'r' sound or the final 'ch'. Rhyming words include 'lurch', 'perch', and 'church'.
Fun Fact
The word's root suggests 'going around' or 'traversing', implying a thorough exploration.
Pronunciation Guide
Starts with an 's' sound, followed by a long 'er' sound like in 'bird', then a 'ch' sound like in 'church'.
Similar to UK, but the 'r' sound is more pronounced, like in 'bird' in American English. Ends with a 'ch' sound.
Common Errors
- Mispronouncing the 'r' sound, especially in American English.
- Not clearly articulating the final 'ch' sound.
- Pronouncing it as 'serch' without the 'r' sound.
Rhymes With
Difficulty Rating
Easy to read in most contexts.
Easy to write, common usage.
Very common in spoken English.
Easily understood when heard.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Avanc
Grammar to Know
Prepositions with verbs
Search for something vs. Search something.
Verb Tenses
I search (present), I searched (past), I am searching (present continuous).
Countable vs. Uncountable Nouns
A search (countable) vs. the act of search (uncountable).
Examples by Level
I search for my toy.
I | search | for | my | toy.
Use 'search for' to show what you are looking for.
Can you search the room?
Can | you | search | the | room?
'Can you...?' is a polite question.
We search for food.
We | search | for | food.
Use 'search for' with things you need.
Search online for pictures.
Search | online | for | pictures.
This is an instruction.
I search my bag.
I | search | my | bag.
You can search a place directly.
Search for the answer.
Search | for | the | answer.
Use 'search for' with abstract things like 'answer'.
He searched the park.
He | searched | the | park.
'Searched' is the past tense.
Let's search together.
Let's | search | together.
'Let's' means 'let us', suggesting an action together.
I need to search for a new job.
I | need | to | search | for | a | new | job.
Use 'search for' when looking for something specific.
She searched the internet for information.
She | searched | the | internet | for | information.
'Searched' is the past tense of 'search'.
Can you help me search my email?
Can | you | help | me | search | my | email?
Use 'search' followed by the place or thing you are searching within.
They searched high and low for the lost keys.
They | searched | high | and | low | for | the | lost | keys.
'Searched high and low' means looked everywhere.
We used a search engine to find the website.
We | used | a | search | engine | to | find | the | website.
'Search engine' is a tool for searching online.
The police searched the car.
The | police | searched | the | car.
Use 'search' followed by the object being searched.
He is searching for his glasses.
He | is | searching | for | his | glasses.
'Is searching' is the present continuous tense.
What are you searching for?
What | are | you | searching | for?
This is a common question when someone is looking for something.
I'm going to search online for the best restaurants in town.
I'm | going | to | search | online | for | the | best | restaurants | in | town.
Use 'search for' to specify what you are looking for.
The librarian helped me search the library catalog.
The | librarian | helped | me | search | the | library | catalog.
You can search systems or databases.
He searched his memory for the name.
He | searched | his | memory | for | the | name.
This is a figurative use, meaning trying hard to remember.
A search party was organized to find the missing hiker.
A | search | party | was | organized | to | find | the | missing | hiker.
'Search party' is a group dedicated to searching.
Please search your records for any correspondence.
Please | search | your | records | for | any | correspondence.
This is a common request in a professional or administrative context.
She searched the web for articles on climate change.
She | searched | the | web | for | articles | on | climate | change.
'Searched the web' is a very common phrase.
We had to search everywhere for the lost dog.
We | had | to | search | everywhere | for | the | lost | dog.
'Search everywhere' emphasizes the extent of the search.
The software allows users to search by keyword.
The | software | allows | users | to | search | by | keyword.
This describes a function of a tool or program.
The detective initiated a thorough search of the suspect's residence.
The | detective | initiated | a | thorough | search | of | the | suspect's | residence.
'Initiated a thorough search' is formal language for starting a detailed search.
Users can search the database using advanced filtering options.
Users | can | search | the | database | using | advanced | filtering | options.
This refers to sophisticated search capabilities.
He embarked on a personal search for identity after the crisis.
He | embarked | on | a | personal | search | for | identity | after | the | crisis.
This is a metaphorical use, implying a deep, internal quest.
The company conducted a market search to identify potential competitors.
The | company | conducted | a | market | search | to | identify | potential | competitors.
'Market search' refers to researching a specific industry or sector.
We searched fruitlessly for a solution to the technical problem.
We | searched | fruitlessly | for | a | solution | to | the | technical | problem.
'Searched fruitlessly' means the search was unsuccessful.
The article provides a comprehensive search of existing literature on the topic.
The | article | provides | a | comprehensive | search | of | existing | literature | on | the | topic.
'Comprehensive search of literature' means a complete review of related studies.
Law enforcement agencies often use sophisticated tools to search for digital evidence.
Law | enforcement | agencies | often | use | sophisticated | tools | to | search | for | digital | evidence.
This highlights the technical aspect of modern searching.
Her search for happiness led her to travel the world.
Her | search | for | happiness | led | her | to | travel | the | world.
This figurative use implies a life journey or pursuit.
The algorithm performs an exhaustive search of the state space to guarantee optimality.
The | algorithm | performs | an | exhaustive | search | of | the | state | space | to | guarantee | optimality.
'Exhaustive search' refers to checking every possibility in computer science.
His academic career was dedicated to the search for a unified theory in physics.
His | academic | career | was | dedicated | to | the | search | for | a | unified | theory | in | physics.
This implies a lifelong, deep intellectual pursuit.
The novel explores the protagonist's existential search for meaning in a chaotic world.
The | novel | explores | the | protagonist's | existential | search | for | meaning | in | a | chaotic | world.
'Existential search' refers to a deep philosophical quest about life's purpose.
Forensic accountants meticulously search financial records for irregularities.
Forensic | accountants | meticulously | search | financial | records | for | irregularities.
'Meticulously search' emphasizes extreme care and detail.
The expedition mounted a prolonged search for the legendary lost city.
The | expedition | mounted | a | prolonged | search | for | the | legendary | lost | city.
'Mounted a prolonged search' suggests a large-scale, extended effort.
We must search our collective conscience regarding historical injustices.
We | must | search | our | collective | conscience | regarding | historical | injustices.
This is a metaphorical call for introspection and moral examination.
The system employs a heuristic search strategy to find approximate solutions efficiently.
The | system | employs | a | heuristic | search | strategy | to | find | approximate | solutions | efficiently.
'Heuristic search' is a computer science term for practical, but not guaranteed, methods.
Her artistic endeavors were a continuous search for novel forms of expression.
Her | artistic | endeavors | were | a | continuous | search | for | novel | forms | of | expression.
This describes a creative process driven by exploration.
The philosophical inquiry delves into the nature of consciousness, a perpetual search for self-understanding.
The | philosophical | inquiry | delves | into | the | nature | of | consciousness, | a | perpetual | search | for | self-understanding.
'Perpetual search' implies an unending, fundamental human quest.
Archaeologists employed ground-penetrating radar in their search for submerged ancient structures.
Archaeologists | employed | ground-penetrating | radar | in | their | search | for | submerged | ancient | structures.
This highlights the use of specialized tools in a scientific search.
The novel's narrative arc follows the protagonist's arduous search for redemption.
The | novel's | narrative | arc | follows | the | protagonist's | arduous | search | for | redemption.
'Arduous search' emphasizes the difficulty and effort involved.
In computational complexity theory, the P versus NP problem hinges on whether certain problems admit efficient searches for solutions.
In | computational | complexity | theory, | the | P | versus | NP | problem | hinges | on | whether | certain | problems | admit | efficient | searches | for | solutions.
'Efficient searches' refers to algorithms that can find solutions quickly.
The quest for extraterrestrial intelligence involves systematic searches of radio signals.
The | quest | for | extraterrestrial | intelligence | involves | systematic | searches | of | radio | signals.
'Systematic searches' implies a planned, methodical approach.
Her magnum opus was a lifelong search for the perfect synthesis of color and form.
Her | magnum | opus | was | a | lifelong | search | for | the | perfect | synthesis | of | color | and | form.
'Lifelong search' denotes a dedication over an entire career.
The investigation involved a painstaking search of decades-old documents.
The | investigation | involved | a | painstaking | search | of | decades-old | documents.
'Painstaking search' highlights the extreme care and effort required.
The human condition is often characterized by an innate search for belonging and connection.
The | human | condition | is | often | characterized | by | an | innate | search | for | belonging | and | connection.
'Innate search' suggests a fundamental, inherent drive.
Collocations courantes
Idioms & Expressions
"search me"
I don't know; I have no idea.
'Who ate the last cookie?' 'Search me!'
casual"search high and low"
To look everywhere for something, with great effort.
We searched high and low for the missing document.
neutral"in search of"
Looking for; seeking.
He traveled the country in search of inspiration.
neutral/formal"search party"
A group of people organized to search for someone who is lost.
The missing child prompted the formation of a search party.
neutral"search warrant"
A legal document authorizing law enforcement to search a specific location.
The officers presented a search warrant before entering.
formal"search me, I'm a search engine"
A humorous response implying one has vast information but might not know a specific detail.
'Where did I leave my keys?' 'Search me, I'm a search engine!'
casual/humorousEasily Confused
Both mean to try to find something.
'Search' often implies a more active, physical, or digital investigation. 'Seek' can be more abstract or formal, often implying a goal or purpose (e.g., seek knowledge, seek asylum).
I searched the internet for the answer. / He seeks justice.
Very similar meaning and often interchangeable.
'Search' generally implies more thoroughness or a systematic approach than 'look for'. 'Look for' can be more casual.
I'm searching for my keys. (Implies maybe a bit more effort) / I'm looking for my keys. (Very common and natural).
Related to the outcome of searching.
'Search' is the action of trying to locate something. 'Find' is the successful result of that action.
I searched for my wallet for an hour, but I didn't find it. / I searched for my wallet and finally found it.
Both involve looking into something.
'Explore' suggests investigating an area or topic broadly, often out of curiosity, without necessarily looking for one specific item. 'Search' is usually more targeted.
Let's explore the city this weekend. (General looking around) / Let's search the map for the best route. (Specific goal).
Sentence Patterns
Subject + search + for + object
We are searching for a new house.
Subject + search + object
The police searched the car.
Search + object + for + object
Search the database for customer records.
Subject + search + adverb
He searched everywhere.
Search + adjective + noun
Perform a quick search.
Famille de mots
Nouns
Verbs
Apparenté
How to Use It
Formality Scale
Erreurs courantes
'Search' is the action of looking; 'find' is the result of successfully looking.
'Search' implies more thoroughness and purpose than 'look'. However, 'look for' is often a good substitute.
When the object of the search is something you are seeking, 'search for' is typically used.
You can search a place directly (search the room) or search for something (search for clues).
While 'search' can be used metaphorically ('search for meaning'), for concrete goals like 'knowledge', 'seek' or 'quest for' might be more appropriate.
Tips
Memory Palace Trick
Imagine your brain is a library. To 'search' for information, you walk down aisles, check book titles, and open volumes. The more specific your search, the more detailed the aisles you explore.
When Native Speakers Use It
Native speakers constantly 'search' online for answers, products, or entertainment. They also casually 'search' their pockets or bags for keys or phones.
Cultural Insight
In the digital age, 'searching' has become a fundamental skill. Efficiently searching online is crucial for education, work, and daily life in many cultures.
Grammar Shortcut
Remember: 'Search for X' (when X is what you want) or 'Search Y' (when Y is the place you're searching within).
Say It Right
Focus on the 'er' sound in the middle and the distinct 'ch' sound at the end. Practice saying 'church', 'lurch', 'perch' to get the ending right.
Don't Make This Mistake
Avoid using 'search' to mean 'find'. 'Search' is the action; 'find' is the successful outcome.
Did You Know?
The verb 'search' comes from Latin 'circare', meaning 'to go around'. This implies a thorough exploration or traversal of an area.
Study Smart
Create flashcards with different contexts: online search, physical search, metaphorical search. Use example sentences for each.
Word Association
Think 'search engine', 'search results', 'search query'. These common pairings help solidify the word's usage in tech contexts.
Idiom Power-Up
Remember 'search me' for 'I don't know' and 'search high and low' for looking everywhere. They add color to your speech!
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine searching for a 'church' (sounds like search) and finding a 'perch' (rhymes).
Visual Association
Picture someone intensely looking through a large pile of books or scrolling through endless web pages.
Word Web
Défi
Try searching for five different things online today and note down your search terms.
Origine du mot
Old French
Original meaning: 'to seek, look for, investigate'
Contexte culturel
Be mindful of context. A 'search' by police can be intrusive, while a 'search' for information is routine.
The concept of 'searching' is fundamental to modern life, especially with the internet. Search engines are ubiquitous tools.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Using the Internet
- Search the web for...
- Use a search engine to find...
- Enter your search query...
Looking for Lost Items
- Search the room for my keys.
- I've searched everywhere!
- Help me search my bag.
Official Investigations
- The police searched the premises.
- They obtained a search warrant.
- Conduct a thorough search.
Research and Academia
- Search the database for relevant articles.
- A comprehensive search of the literature.
- Perform a keyword search.
Conversation Starters
"What's the most interesting thing you've searched for online recently?"
"If you could search anywhere in the world for a lost treasure, where would you go?"
"How often do you search for information online versus asking someone?"
"What's your favorite search engine and why?"
"Have you ever had to search for something really important? What was it?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you had to search for something important. What was the outcome?
How has the ability to 'search' online changed the way you learn or solve problems?
Write about a metaphorical 'search' you are currently on (e.g., search for happiness, search for purpose).
Imagine a world without search engines. How would daily life be different?
Questions fréquentes
8 questions'Search' often implies a more systematic or thorough effort than 'look for'. However, they are frequently interchangeable, especially in casual conversation. You 'search for' or 'look for' something.
You can say both! 'Search my bag' means you are looking inside the bag. 'Search for my bag' means you are looking for the bag itself because it's lost. Context is key!
A search engine is a program or website (like Google, Bing, DuckDuckGo) that allows users to search for information on the World Wide Web using keywords.
It can be both! As a verb, it means 'to look for something' (e.g., 'I will search the internet'). As a noun, it refers to the act of searching (e.g., 'The search took hours').
It's an idiom meaning to search everywhere, very thoroughly, in every possible place.
You 'search' a website, a database, or the internet for information. You might 'search for' specific files or use a 'search engine'.
'Search' is the action of looking for something. 'Find' is the result of successfully locating it after searching.
Yes, metaphorically. People can 'search for meaning', 'search for happiness', or 'search for truth', implying a deep, often lifelong, quest.
Teste-toi
I need to ______ my keys. I can't find them anywhere.
We use 'search' when we are actively looking for something specific.
Which word means to look for information on the internet?
'Search' is commonly used for looking for information online.
The noun form of 'search' is 'searched'.
The noun form is 'search' (e.g., 'a thorough search'). 'Searched' is the past tense verb.
Word
Signification
These are common phrases involving the word 'search'.
The correct sentence is 'I'm searching for a new job.'
The police obtained a ______ before they could enter the house.
A 'search warrant' is a legal document allowing police to search a property.
Which phrase implies looking everywhere with great effort?
'Search high and low' is an idiom meaning to look everywhere thoroughly.
The scientist conducted a ______ search of the data for anomalies.
'Thorough' implies a detailed and complete search, suitable for scientific data analysis.
The novel explores the protagonist's existential ______ for meaning.
While 'quest' and 'pursuit' are similar, 'search for meaning' is a very common collocation for existential exploration.
Correct the error: 'I am searching my bag for my phone.'
When searching a place directly, you can say 'search [place] for [item]'. 'Searching my bag for my phone' is correct.
Score : /10
Summary
To search is to actively and systematically look for something, whether it's online data or lost keys.
- Verb meaning to look for something, especially information.
- Commonly used with computers and the internet.
- Can be used physically (search a room) or metaphorically (search for meaning).
- Noun form is 'search'; common collocations include 'search engine' and 'search warrant'.
Memory Palace Trick
Imagine your brain is a library. To 'search' for information, you walk down aisles, check book titles, and open volumes. The more specific your search, the more detailed the aisles you explore.
When Native Speakers Use It
Native speakers constantly 'search' online for answers, products, or entertainment. They also casually 'search' their pockets or bags for keys or phones.
Cultural Insight
In the digital age, 'searching' has become a fundamental skill. Efficiently searching online is crucial for education, work, and daily life in many cultures.
Grammar Shortcut
Remember: 'Search for X' (when X is what you want) or 'Search Y' (when Y is the place you're searching within).
Related Content
Ce mot dans d'autres langues
Plus de mots sur media
共有する
A2To share; to let others use or have access to something.
配信する
A2To distribute; to stream; to send out information or content.
出版
B1The preparation and issuing of a book, journal, or piece of music for public sale or distribution.
読者
A2Reader; a person who reads or is fond of reading.
配信
A2Distribution; streaming; sending out content, especially digitally.
視聴
A2Watching and listening; the act of viewing and hearing broadcast content.
録画
A2Video recording; the act of recording moving images.
放送する
A2To broadcast; to transmit a program by radio or television.
批評する
A2To criticize; to review; to evaluate a work of art or literature.
撮影する
A2To photograph; to film; to record images with a camera.
