When you're trying to find someone or something specific, you can use the word 寻访 (xúnfǎng).
It implies you're making an effort to search for them, perhaps by going to different places or asking people.
Think of it as actively looking for someone you want to meet or an old place you want to visit.
For example, a journalist might 寻访 (xúnfǎng) someone for an interview.
It's not just a casual look; it's a purposeful search.
When you want to express the idea of actively searching for someone or something, especially with a purpose or intention to meet or gather information, the word 寻访 is a good choice.
It implies a more deliberate and often extensive search than simply looking for something. You might 寻访 an old friend, a historical site, or even a particular type of information.
Think of it as actively going out to find and potentially interact with the object of your search. This verb conveys a sense of journey and discovery in your quest.
When you 寻访 (xúnfǎng), you are actively looking for someone or something, often with a specific purpose in mind. This verb implies a journey or a search, not just a casual encounter. For example, you might 寻访 an old friend you haven't seen in years, or a hidden temple in the mountains. It's more about a deliberate quest than a simple visit.
When using 寻访 (xúnfǎng) at a C2 level, you can emphasize the nuance of a purposeful, often extensive search, perhaps with an investigative or exploratory undertone. Think of it as a more active and intentional seeking than a simple 'look for'.
For instance, you might use it when describing a journalist 'seeking out' sources for a story, or a researcher 'interviewing' experts in a field. It carries a sense of diligence and a broader scope of inquiry.
You can also subtly convey the idea of revisiting places or people from the past to gather information or memories, suggesting a journey of discovery or rediscovery. It's not just about finding; it's about the process of seeking itself.
寻访 in 30 Seconds
- B1
- search
- interview
§ What does 寻访 (xúnfǎng) mean?
Let's break down 寻访 (xúnfǎng). This word is a verb, and it essentially means "to seek out" or "to interview." It's often used when you are deliberately looking for someone or something, usually with a specific purpose in mind. Think of it as a more intentional and sometimes more formal way of "looking for."
- DEFINITION
- To seek out; to interview.
The two characters in 寻访 (xúnfǎng) give us good clues. 寻 (xún) means to search or to look for. 访 (fǎng) means to visit, to call on, or to interview. So, when you put them together, you get this idea of searching specifically to visit or to interview someone or something.
§ When do people use 寻访 (xúnfǎng)?
You'll hear or read 寻访 (xúnfǎng) in a few common situations. It's often used when:
- Reporters or researchers are looking for information or people: Imagine a journalist trying to find a rare expert for an interview, or a historian searching for old documents.
- Someone is tracing their roots or looking for long-lost relatives: When you're actively trying to find family members you haven't seen in years.
- People are exploring a place to find something specific: Like an adventurer seeking out a hidden temple.
- It has a slightly formal or literary feel: While you can use it in everyday conversation, it often carries a bit more weight than a simple "找" (zhǎo - to look for).
Let's look at some examples to make this clearer. Pay attention to how the context shapes the meaning.
记者寻访了多位专家，以了解气候变化的影响。
Here, 记者 (jìzhě - reporter) 寻访 (xúnfǎng) is used because the reporter is actively seeking out experts for interviews to get information. It's a deliberate action with a clear goal.
他踏上了寻访故乡的旅程，希望能找到儿时的玩伴。
In this example, 踏上了寻访故乡的旅程 (tà shàng le xúnfǎng gùxiāng de lǚchéng - embarked on a journey to seek out his hometown) shows someone purposefully going back to find something specific – his childhood friends. It's not just a casual visit.
You wouldn't typically use 寻访 (xúnfǎng) to say you're looking for your keys or your phone. For those everyday items, 你找什么 (Nǐ zhǎo shénme - What are you looking for?) is perfectly fine. 寻访 (xúnfǎng) suggests a more significant, often prolonged, or more complex search. It implies a degree of effort and determination.
Consider the nuance: if you're just looking for a friend in a crowd, you'd use 找 (zhǎo). If you're an anthropologist traveling to a remote village to conduct interviews with elders about their traditions, then you are definitely 寻访 (xúnfǎng) them.
- 寻访 (xúnfǎng) vs. 找 (zhǎo): 找 (zhǎo) is a general verb for "to look for." 寻访 (xúnfǎng) is more specific, implying a deliberate search, often with a purpose of visiting or interviewing.
- 寻访 (xúnfǎng) vs. 调查 (diàochá): 调查 (diàochá) means to investigate or to survey. While there's overlap in research contexts, 寻访 (xúnfǎng) focuses more on the act of seeking out and visiting people or places, whereas 调查 (diàochá) is broader, encompassing the entire investigation process.
Mastering 寻访 (xúnfǎng) will help you sound more natural and precise when discussing purposeful searches, interviews, and explorations in Chinese. It's a word that adds a layer of intention and depth to your vocabulary.
Alright, let's talk about 寻访 (xúnfǎng). This word isn't just for textbooks. You'll actually hear and see it quite a bit in real-world Chinese, especially when people are talking about looking for something specific, often with a bit of effort or purpose. It's more formal than just 'looking for,' and it implies a deliberate search, sometimes for information, sometimes for people, or even places. Think of it as 'seeking out' or 'making inquiries about.'
§ Work and Business
In a work context, 寻访 often comes up when someone needs to find out information or connect with specific individuals. Imagine a journalist trying to get a story, or a headhunter looking for the perfect candidate. It's about proactive investigation and outreach.
记者正在寻访事件的目击者。
Jìzhě zhèngzài xúnfǎng shìjiàn de mùjízhě.
(The reporter is seeking out witnesses to the incident.)
公司派人去全国各地寻访有潜力的新兴市场。
Gōngsī pài rén qù quánguó gèdì xúnfǎng yǒu qiánlì de xīnxīng shìchǎng.
(The company sent people across the country to seek out potential emerging markets.)
§ School and Research
In academic settings, 寻访 is used when students or researchers are conducting fieldwork, looking for old texts, or interviewing experts. It highlights the investigative aspect of their work.
他正在图书馆寻访古老的文献资料。
Tā zhèngzài túshūguǎn xúnfǎng gǔlǎo de wénxiàn zīliào.
(He is seeking out ancient documents and materials in the library.)
为了完成论文，我需要去山区寻访当地居民。
Wèile wánchéng lùnwén, wǒ xūyào qù shānqū xúnfǎng dāngdì jūmín.
(To complete my thesis, I need to go to the mountains to interview local residents.)
§ News and Media
News reports frequently use 寻访 when talking about investigative journalism, tracking down sources, or uncovering hidden facts. It gives a sense of a deep dive into a topic.
新闻团队正在寻访事件真相。
Xīnwén tuánduì zhèngzài xúnfǎng shìjiàn zhēnxiàng.
(The news team is seeking out the truth of the incident.)
这部纪录片寻访了许多历史遗迹。
Zhè bù jìlùpiàn xúnfǎng le xǔduō lìshǐ yíjì.
(This documentary visited many historical sites.)
- Remember these key points:
- 寻访 (xúnfǎng) implies a conscious, often diligent, effort to find something or someone.
- It's more formal than just '找' (zhǎo - to look for).
- You'll encounter it in contexts related to investigation, research, and purposeful searching.
- It can mean 'to seek out,' 'to interview,' or 'to visit (with a purpose).'
§ Don't Confuse with General Searching
Many learners, especially at the B1 level, might mistakenly use 寻访 (xúnfǎng) interchangeably with more general verbs for 'searching' like 寻找 (xúnzhǎo) or 找 (zhǎo). While both involve looking for something, 寻访 carries a much more specific nuance. 寻找 and 找 are broad; they can be used for anything from finding your keys to looking for a new job. 寻访, however, implies a more deliberate, often extensive, and purposeful search, usually for people, places, or information with historical, cultural, or personal significance. It's not for everyday items.
- WRONG
- 我正在寻访我的手机。(Wǒ zhèngzài xúnfǎng wǒ de shǒujī.)
This sounds very unnatural. You wouldn't use such a formal and specific verb to say you're looking for your phone.
- RIGHT
- 我正在找我的手机。(Wǒ zhèngzài zhǎo wǒ de shǒujī.)
他花了很多时间寻访失散多年的老朋友。(Tā huāle hěnduō shíjiān xúnfǎng shīsàn duōnián de lǎo péngyou.) — He spent a lot of time seeking out his old friends who had been separated for many years.
§ Overusing 寻访 for 'Interview'
While 寻访 can mean 'to interview,' it's not the most common or neutral word for every interview scenario. If you're talking about a job interview, a media interview, or a casual interview, there are more appropriate and common terms. 寻访 for 'interview' usually suggests a more in-depth, often investigative, or research-oriented interview, frequently with an expert, a historical figure (or their descendants), or someone with unique knowledge.
- For job interviews, use 面试 (miànshì).
- For media interviews, use 采访 (cǎifǎng).
- For general interviews, 访谈 (fǎngtán) is also common.
- WRONG
- 我明天要去寻访一个工作。(Wǒ míngtiān yào qù xúnfǎng yīgè gōngzuò.)
This is incorrect. You don't 'seek out' a job in this formal sense; you 'interview' for one.
- RIGHT
- 我明天要去面试。(Wǒ míngtiān yào qù miànshì.)
记者寻访了多位历史学家，以了解这段历史的真相。(Jìzhě xúnfǎng le duō wèi lìshǐxuéjiā, yǐ liáojiě zhè duàn lìshǐ de zhēnxiàng.) — The reporter interviewed several historians to understand the truth of this period of history.
§ Not for Immediate or Casual Actions
寻访 implies a process, often taking time and effort. It's not suitable for quick, immediate, or casual actions. You wouldn't use it to describe quickly checking something or briefly visiting someone without a deeper purpose.
- WRONG
- 我去寻访一下超市有没有牛奶。(Wǒ qù xúnfǎng yīxià chāoshì yǒu méiyǒu niúnǎi.)
This is completely inappropriate. You're just going to check the supermarket, not undertake a grand quest.
- RIGHT
- 我去超市看看有没有牛奶。(Wǒ qù chāoshì kànkan yǒu méiyǒu niúnǎi.)
为了完成这本著作，作者寻访了许多偏远的山村。(Wèile wánchéng zhè běn zhùzuò, zuòzhě xúnfǎng le xǔduō piānyuǎn de shāncūn.) — To complete this book, the author sought out many remote mountain villages.
Alright, let's talk about similar words to 寻访 (xúnfǎng) and how to know when to use it.
The core idea of 寻访 is about actively searching for someone or something, often with a specific purpose or goal in mind, and usually implying a journey or effort to do so. It's not just a casual look; it's a deliberate seeking out.
§ 寻访 (xúnfǎng) vs 寻找 (xúnzhǎo)
These two are quite close, but there's a key difference. 寻找 is a more general term for 'to look for' or 'to search for.' You can use 寻找 for almost anything you're trying to find. For example, you can 寻找 your lost keys (寻找我的钥匙) or 寻找 information online (寻找信息).
寻访, on the other hand, specifically implies visiting places or people as part of your search. It has a stronger sense of 'interviewing' or 'making inquiries' as you go. Think of it as 'seeking out and visiting.'
他正在寻访一位老艺术家。
- Translation hint
- He is seeking out an old artist (to visit or interview).
我正在寻找我的手机。
- Translation hint
- I am looking for my phone.
§ 寻访 (xúnfǎng) vs 访问 (fǎngwèn)
访问 means 'to visit' or 'to interview.' It's often used when you already know who or what you're going to see. For example, a journalist might 访问 a celebrity (访问一位名人).
寻访 adds the element of 'searching' before the 'visiting.' You're actively trying to locate someone or something, and the visiting is part of that process. It implies a journey or effort to get to the person/place you want to visit.
记者访问了多位专家。
- Translation hint
- The reporter interviewed several experts.
他们寻访了许多村庄，只为找到那传说中的手艺人。
- Translation hint
- They sought out and visited many villages just to find that legendary craftsman.
§ Key takeaway for 寻访
Use 寻访 when you're looking for someone or something specific, and your search involves going to different places or talking to different people to find them. It's a more purposeful and active search that culminates in a visit or interview.
- It implies a deliberate, often extensive, search.
- It usually involves physically going to places or people.
- It often has a research, investigative, or discovery feel to it.
So next time you're trying to describe the act of seeking someone or something out and then visiting them, remember 寻访!
Fun Fact
While 寻访 implies a purposeful search, 访 can also be used alone in more formal contexts like '记者采访' (jìzhě cǎifǎng) meaning 'reporter interviews'.
Difficulty Rating
The characters are not overly complex, but '寻' might be new to some B1 learners.
Both characters have a moderate number of strokes; practice is needed.
Tones are relatively straightforward (xún fǎng - Level 2, Level 3).
Common sound combination, should be recognizable in context.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
寻访 can be used to describe the act of actively searching for someone or something, often with a specific purpose or goal in mind. It implies a journey or a process of discovery.
他去寻访失散多年的老朋友。(He went to seek out his long-lost old friend.)
It can be used in contexts where one is looking for information, a solution, or even a spiritual truth.
记者寻访到了事件的真相。(The reporter sought out the truth of the incident.)
When used with people, 寻访 often carries the nuance of interviewing or visiting them to gather information or hear their stories.
我们寻访了当地的居民，了解他们的生活。(We interviewed the local residents to understand their lives.)
The object of 寻访 can be concrete (a person, a place) or abstract (a solution, a legend).
我一直在寻访一个解决问题的好方法。(I have been seeking a good way to solve the problem.)
寻访 can sometimes imply a more formal or deliberate search compared to simpler verbs like '找' (to look for), suggesting a more extensive or purposeful endeavor.
他决定寻访历史遗迹，感受古人的智慧。(He decided to seek out historical relics to experience the wisdom of the ancients.)
Examples by Level
我去寻访老朋友。
I go to seek out old friends.
他想寻访一位老师。
He wants to seek out a teacher.
我们在寻访一家好餐馆。
We are seeking out a good restaurant.
我喜欢寻访旧书店。
I like to seek out old bookstores.
记者去寻访新闻。
The reporter goes to seek out news.
她寻访了很多人。
She interviewed many people.
我想寻访一个安静的地方。
I want to seek out a quiet place.
你为什么寻访这个地方？
Why do you seek out this place?
他正在寻访一位经验丰富的老师。
He is seeking out an experienced teacher.
记者去偏远的山村寻访那里的居民。
The reporter went to a remote mountain village to interview its residents.
我们去寻访古老的寺庙。
We went to seek out ancient temples.
我需要寻访一些专家来解答我的问题。
I need to seek out some experts to answer my questions.
她在寻访失散多年的家人。
She is seeking out her long-lost family.
旅行者喜欢寻访当地的特色美食。
Travelers like to seek out local specialty foods.
这位导演正在寻访合适的演员。
This director is seeking out suitable actors.
为了完成研究，他寻访了许多历史遗迹。
To complete his research, he sought out many historical sites.
他正在寻访一位经验丰富的导师。
He is seeking out an experienced mentor.
记者去偏远的山村寻访当地的民间故事。
The reporter went to a remote mountain village to seek out local folk tales.
为了完成他的研究，他寻访了许多历史遗迹。
To complete his research, he sought out many historical sites.
我们计划寻访一些当地的手工艺人，了解他们的技艺。
We plan to interview some local artisans to learn about their craftsmanship.
她正在寻访一位失散多年的老朋友。
She is seeking out a long-lost old friend.
公司派人去全国各地寻访新的商机。
The company sent people all over the country to seek out new business opportunities.
这部纪录片旨在寻访那些被遗忘的历史人物。
This documentary aims to seek out those forgotten historical figures.
他花了数年时间寻访不同地区的音乐，最终创作出独特的风格。
He spent years seeking out music from different regions, finally creating a unique style.
他正在寻访一位失散多年的老朋友。
He is seeking out an old friend who has been lost for many years.
寻访 (xúnfǎng) is often followed by a person being sought.
记者去偏远山区寻访当地的民间艺人。
The reporter went to the remote mountainous area to seek out local folk artists.
寻访 (xúnfǎng) implies a deliberate and often extensive search.
我们计划寻访那些对社区有贡献的无名英雄。
We plan to seek out those unsung heroes who have contributed to the community.
无名英雄 (wúmíng yīngxióng) means 'unsung heroes'.
为了完成论文，他寻访了许多历史学家。
To complete his thesis, he interviewed many historians.
寻访 (xúnfǎng) can also mean 'to interview' when seeking information from people.
这家公司正在寻访有潜力的年轻设计师。
This company is seeking out promising young designers.
有潜力 (yǒu qiánlì) means 'promising' or 'potential'.
寻访古老的村落，感受历史的沉淀。
Seeking out ancient villages to feel the accumulation of history.
寻访 (xúnfǎng) can be used to describe exploring places as well.
她花费数年时间寻访失落的家族秘籍。
She spent several years seeking out lost family secrets/manuals.
秘籍 (mìjí) can refer to secret manuals or treasured books.
当地政府鼓励学者寻访和保护非物质文化遗产。
The local government encourages scholars to seek out and protect intangible cultural heritage.
非物质文化遗产 (fēi wùzhì wénhuà yíchǎn) means 'intangible cultural heritage'.
这位记者深入山区寻访少数民族文化遗产。
The journalist delved into the mountains to seek out the cultural heritage of ethnic minorities.
他花费数年时间寻访失散多年的亲人。
He spent several years seeking out his long-lost relatives.
为了完成这部纪录片，导演寻访了许多历史事件的亲历者。
To complete this documentary, the director interviewed many eyewitnesses of historical events.
旅行者们热衷于寻访古老的寺庙和遗迹。
Travelers are keen on seeking out ancient temples and ruins.
我正在寻访一位擅长修复古籍的专家。
I am seeking out an expert who is skilled in restoring ancient books.
考古队在沙漠中寻访失落的文明。
The archaeological team is seeking out lost civilizations in the desert.
她决定亲自寻访真相，而不是听信谣言。
She decided to personally seek out the truth, rather than believe rumors.
村里的人们仍然会寻访老中医，寻求传统疗法。
People in the village still seek out old Chinese medicine practitioners for traditional therapies.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
我们去寻访一位老中医。
We went to seek out an old traditional Chinese medicine doctor.
记者正在寻访事件的真相。
The reporter is interviewing to find out the truth of the incident.
他花了很多时间寻访失散的家人。
He spent a lot of time looking for his lost family.
我周末喜欢去小镇寻访特色商店。
I like to visit unique shops in small towns on weekends.
为了完成研究，他四处寻访资料。
To complete his research, he searched everywhere for information.
这部电影讲述了一个寻访童年记忆的故事。
This movie tells a story about seeking out childhood memories.
他们计划寻访当地的手工艺人。
They plan to seek out local artisans.
通过寻访，他了解了许多地方风俗。
Through his visits, he learned a lot about local customs.
警方正在寻访目击证人。
The police are interviewing eyewitnesses.
寻访的过程虽然辛苦，但收获很大。
Although the process of seeking out was difficult, the rewards were great.
Often Confused With
General 'to look for' vs. specific, purposeful 'seek out/interview'.
General 'to visit/interview' vs. 'to seek out' with an investigative purpose.
'To inquire' vs. 'to physically seek out' for investigation.
Idioms & Expressions
"寻访旧友"
To seek out old friends
他决定回到家乡，寻访旧友，重温儿时记忆。
neutral"寻访名师"
To seek out a famous teacher
为了提高技艺，他四处寻访名师。
neutral"寻访古迹"
To seek out historical sites
我们周末去郊外寻访古迹，了解当地的历史。
neutral"寻访真相"
To seek out the truth
记者深入调查，寻访真相，揭露事件的内幕。
neutral"寻访美食"
To seek out delicious food
来这个城市，一定要寻访当地的特色美食。
neutral"寻访民间艺术"
To seek out folk art
她热衷于寻访民间艺术，收集各种精美的工艺品。
neutral"寻访失散亲人"
To seek out lost relatives
他花费了数十年时间，最终寻访到了失散多年的亲人。
neutral"寻访灵感"
To seek out inspiration
艺术家常常旅行，通过接触不同文化寻访灵感。
neutral"寻访贤人"
To seek out a wise person
古代的君主常常寻访贤人，以便治理国家。
formal"寻访秘方"
To seek out a secret recipe
为了治愈疾病，他踏遍千山万水，寻访秘方。
neutralEasily Confused
Both 寻访 and 寻找 involve 'seeking' or 'looking for.' The confusion arises from when to use a more formal and purposeful 'seek out' versus a general 'look for.'
寻找 is a general term for 'to look for' or 'to search.' It can apply to people, objects, or information, and doesn't necessarily imply a formal or investigative purpose. For example, you can 寻找 your lost keys. 寻访, on the other hand, implies a more deliberate, often investigative or interview-based search, typically for people, places, or information with a specific purpose.
我正在寻找一本关于中国历史的书。 (Wǒ zhèngzài xúnzhǎo yī běn guānyú Zhōngguó lìshǐ de shū.) - I am looking for a book about Chinese history.
Both 寻访 and 访问 can mean 'to visit' or 'to interview.' The distinction lies in the nuance of the purpose and formality of the encounter.
访问 is a broad term for 'to visit' or 'to call on,' often with a specific purpose like a formal visit, an interview, or a technical consultation. It can be used for visiting places or people. 寻访 specifically emphasizes the 'seeking out' aspect, often with a sense of discovery, investigation, or a more personal, perhaps less formal, interview where you're actively searching for someone or something specific. You might 寻访 an old master, but 访问 a factory.
他今天访问了一位著名的科学家。 (Tā jīntiān fǎngwènle yī wèi zhùmíng de kēxuéjiā.) - He visited a famous scientist today.
Both words involve trying to get information, but the method and directness are different.
打听 means 'to ask about' or 'to inquire about,' typically by asking questions to people to get information. It's about gathering information through inquiry. 寻访, while it might involve asking questions, emphasizes the physical act of 'seeking out' or 'visiting' in order to find something or someone, often with a deeper investigative intent than simply asking for information.
我想打听一下去火车站的路。 (Wǒ xiǎng dǎtīng yīxià qù huǒchēzhàn de lù.) - I want to ask about the way to the train station.
Both suggest 'visiting' with an exploratory or investigative element. The key is the degree of purpose and 'seeking out.'
探访 often means 'to visit' or 'to explore,' with a focus on observing or understanding a situation or condition. It can be more about checking in or making a brief inspection. 寻访 usually implies a more active, prolonged, and purposeful search, often involving traveling to find someone or something specific, and perhaps conducting a more in-depth interview or investigation.
记者探访了受灾地区的情况。 (Jìzhě tànfǎngle shòuzāi dìqū de qíngkuàng.) - The reporter visited the disaster-stricken area to investigate the situation.
Both involve visiting, but the formality and purpose are distinct.
拜访 specifically means 'to pay a visit to' or 'to call on,' and it usually implies a more formal, respectful visit to a superior, elder, or someone important, often out of courtesy or to seek advice/help. It's about showing respect. 寻访, while it can be respectful, focuses more on the 'seeking out' aspect for a specific purpose (like interviewing or investigating), rather than just a polite visit.
我明天要去拜访我的老师。 (Wǒ míngtiān yào qù bàifǎng wǒ de lǎoshī.) - I am going to visit my teacher tomorrow.
Word Family
Nouns
How to Use It
When using 寻访 (xúnfǎng), think of it as a purposeful search, often for people, places, or information, with an intention to learn or understand. It's more active and directed than simply 'looking for' something. For example, you might 寻访 an old friend you've lost touch with, or 寻访 a historical site to learn more about it. It implies a journey or effort to find and engage with the subject.
A common mistake is using 寻访 when a simpler verb like '找' (zhǎo - to look for) would suffice. 寻访 implies a more deliberate and often extensive search. You wouldn't 寻访 your keys; you'd 找 your keys. Another mistake is using it for inanimate objects that don't require 'interviewing' or 'seeking out' in a profound sense. Remember, it's about seeking out and engaging, often with a person or a significant place/object, to gather information or make a connection.
Tips
Basic Meaning
The core meaning of 寻访 (xúnfǎng) is to seek out or search for someone or something, usually with a specific purpose or intention.
Interview Context
When 寻访 is used in the context of people, it often implies interviewing them, especially for information or a story. Think of a reporter or a researcher.
Historical/Cultural Seeking
It's commonly used for seeking out places, artifacts, or people with historical or cultural significance. You 寻访 ancient sites or old masters.
Example: Seeking a Master
他四处寻访一位武术大师。 (Tā sìchù xúnfǎng yī wèi wǔshù dàshī.) - He sought out a martial arts master everywhere.
Example: Interviewing Elders
记者去农村寻访老一辈人。 (Jìzhě qù nóngcūn xúnfǎng lǎo yī bèi rén.) - The reporter went to the countryside to interview the older generation.
Example: Visiting Old Places
我们去寻访了很多古老的建筑。 (Wǒmen qù xúnfǎng le hěnduō gǔlǎo de jiànzhù.) - We sought out many ancient buildings.
Purposeful Search
Remember, 寻访 implies a more deliberate and purposeful search compared to just 'looking for' (找 - zhǎo).
Not for Lost Items
Don't use 寻访 for casually looking for a lost item like keys. It's too formal and implies a more significant quest.
Common Collocations
You often see 寻访 with places (地点), people (人物), or historical traces (历史遗迹). It emphasizes the act of going to find something specific.
Literary Context
In more literary or formal contexts, 寻访 can evoke a sense of journey or exploration to discover something hidden or forgotten.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of '寻' (xún) as 'searching' and '访' (fǎng) as 'visiting.' So, you're searching to visit someone or something.
Visual Association
Imagine a detective with a magnifying glass, actively 'seeking out' clues or a journalist with a microphone, 'interviewing' people. Both actions involve '寻访'.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 寻访 in a sentence describing a time you had to actively seek out someone or something, or when someone was interviewed. For example: '我寻访了…' (Wǒ xúnfǎng le…) or '他们寻访了…' (Tāmen xúnfǎng le…)
Word Origin
Composed of 寻 (xún) 'to search' and 访 (fǎng) 'to visit' or 'to interview'.
Original meaning: The combination suggests actively seeking out and visiting someone or a place, often with a specific purpose like gathering information or making an inquiry.
Sino-Tibetan, Sinitic, Chinese.Cultural Context
When someone says they are going to 寻访 an old master or a traditional craftsman, it carries a sense of respectful inquiry and a desire to learn from their wisdom or skill. It's often used in contexts of seeking out cultural heritage, historical sites, or knowledgeable individuals for learning and understanding. This term conveys a deeper, more intentional search than simply 'looking for' something.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsThat's a great question! While both 寻访 (xúnfǎng) and 访问 (fǎngwèn) can mean 'to visit' or 'to interview,' there's a subtle but important difference.
寻访 (xúnfǎng) often implies a more active search or quest. You are seeking out someone or something, usually for a specific purpose like gathering information, tracing a history, or finding a person who is not easily accessible. It often suggests a bit more effort or a journey involved. Think of it as 'seeking and visiting.'
Example: 记者去深山老林寻访一位隐居的艺术家。(The reporter went into the remote mountains to seek out a reclusive artist.)
访问 (fǎngwèn) is more general. It simply means to visit or to call on someone or a place, often for formal or social reasons. It can also mean to access a website or data. It doesn't carry the same nuance of a 'search' as 寻访.
Example: 我们访问了当地的博物馆。(We visited the local museum.)
So, if you're actively searching for someone or something, 寻访 is often a better fit. If it's a general visit, 访问 is your word.
Yes, you absolutely can! While 寻访 (xúnfǎng) is often used for people, it can also be used for objects, especially if you are actively searching for a specific, often rare or historically significant item. It still carries that nuance of 'seeking out' or 'hunting for.'
For example:
他们正在寻访一件失落的古代文物。(They are currently seeking out a lost ancient artifact.)
我正在寻访一本稀有的旧书。(I am seeking out a rare old book.)
So, if you're on a quest for an object, 寻访 is a good choice.
Yes, 寻访 (xúnfǎng) tends to be a more formal and literary word. You'll often see it in written contexts like news reports, historical accounts, or more formal discussions. In everyday casual conversations, you might hear simpler terms like 找 (zhǎo - to look for) or 去拜访 (qù bàifǎng - to visit).
However, that doesn't mean you can't use it in speech. It just adds a touch of formality or seriousness to your expression. So, it's good to be aware of its register.
The pronunciation of 寻访 is xúnfǎng.
寻 (xún): First tone. The 'x' is like the 'sh' in 'sheep' but with your tongue flatter. The 'un' is like 'oon' in 'moon' but shorter.
访 (fǎng): Third tone. The 'f' is like in 'fan'. The 'ang' is like 'ahng' in 'song' but with a slight 'n' sound at the end. Remember the third tone dip.
Put them together: xúnfǎng. Give it a try!
You would typically 寻访 (xúnfǎng) people who are noteworthy, have specific knowledge, or are difficult to find. This could include:
Experts or scholars: Journalists might 寻访 a historian for an interview.
Example: 记者寻访了历史学家，了解当年的事件。(The reporter sought out the historian to understand the events of that year.)
Old friends or relatives: If you're trying to reconnect after a long time.
Example: 他决定回老家寻访童年玩伴。(He decided to go back to his hometown to seek out his childhood playmates.)
Hidden talents or reclusive individuals: As in the example of the artist.
Example: 导演正在全国各地寻访有潜力的年轻演员。(The director is seeking out talented young actors across the country.)
Witnesses: In a legal or investigative context.
Example: 警方正在寻访目击证人。(The police are seeking out eyewitnesses.)
The key is that there's a purpose to your search, and the person isn't just someone you'd casually run into.
Sometimes, yes, but it depends on the context. 寻访 (xúnfǎng) is more specific than a general 'look for' or 'search for.'
If you're just looking for your keys, you would use 找 (zhǎo): 我在找我的钥匙。(I'm looking for my keys.) You wouldn't use 寻访 here.
However, if 'look for' or 'search for' carries the nuance of actively seeking someone or something out, often involving a journey or a deliberate effort, then 寻访 can be a good equivalent.
Think of it this way: 寻访 = 'to go out and seek,' 'to track down and visit.' It implies more effort and a specific destination or person in mind than a simple 'look for.' So, use it when the 'search' is more involved.
While 寻访 (xúnfǎng) is a clear and direct verb, it's not as commonly found in fixed idioms or chengyu (four-character idioms) as some other verbs. Its meaning is quite straightforward: 'to seek out and visit/interview.'
You'll typically see it used directly in sentences describing the action itself, rather than as part of a larger idiomatic expression. The power of the word comes from its precise meaning of active, purposeful searching.
寻访 (xúnfǎng) functions as a verb in a sentence. It's usually followed by the object (the person or place) that is being sought out or visited. The basic structure is often:
Subject + 寻访 + Object
Examples:
我们去乡村寻访民间艺人。(We went to the countryside to seek out folk artists.)
他一生都在寻访真理。(He spent his whole life seeking out the truth.)
记者们寻访了事件的亲历者。(The reporters interviewed those who personally experienced the event.)
You can also add adverbs before 寻访 to describe how the action is performed, like 仔细寻访 (carefully seek out) or 多方寻访 (seek out from many sources).
Yes, absolutely! 寻访 (xúnfǎng) is very suitable for contexts of research and investigation, especially when that research involves actively seeking out information, people, or places.
When you are doing historical research, you might 寻访 old archives, historical sites, or elderly people who have memories of the past. When you are investigating a case, you might 寻访 witnesses or clues.
Example:
他为了写书，寻访了许多历史遗迹。(To write the book, he sought out many historical relics.)
研究团队正在寻访有关这种疾病的早期病例。(The research team is seeking out early cases related to this disease.)
It perfectly captures the active, purposeful nature of such endeavors.
Generally, no. 寻访 (xúnfǎng) implies a physical journey or a direct, often in-person, effort to find and visit someone or something. When you are searching online, you would typically use words like 搜索 (sōusuǒ - to search, especially online), 查找 (cházhǎo - to look up, to search for), or simply 找 (zhǎo - to look for).
For example:
我在网上搜索信息。(I am searching for information online.)
你可以在网上查找这家公司的资料。(You can look up information about this company online.)
So, keep 寻访 for those 'boots on the ground' kind of searches!
Test Yourself 162 questions
她想去图书馆___一本书。
Here, '找' (zhǎo) means to look for or find something, which fits the context of going to the library for a book at an A1 level.
我喜欢去公园___朋友。
'见' (jiàn) means to meet, which is a common action with friends and suitable for A1.
他要___一个新工作。
At A1, '找' (zhǎo) is used for 'looking for' a job, which is a fundamental concept.
你今天想___什么？
'吃' (chī) means to eat, a very basic and frequent verb at A1 level.
我们去商店___衣服。
'买' (mǎi) means to buy, which is a common activity when going to a store for clothes at A1.
老师在___学生。
'教' (jiāo) means to teach, which is what a teacher does with students, appropriate for A1 learners.
Choose the correct character for 'xún' in 寻访 (xúnfǎng).
The character '寻' (xún) means to seek or search.
Which of these words means 'to visit' or 'to call on' in Chinese?
寻访 (xúnfǎng) means to seek out or visit.
Which of these sentences correctly uses 寻访 (xúnfǎng)?
寻访 (xúnfǎng) is used for seeking out or visiting people or places, not abstract concepts or objects like rice, sleep, or water.
寻访 (xúnfǎng) means 'to eat'.
寻访 (xúnfǎng) means 'to seek out' or 'to interview', not 'to eat'. 'To eat' is 吃饭 (chīfàn).
You can use 寻访 (xúnfǎng) to say 'I will visit my family'.
Yes, you can use 寻访 (xúnfǎng) to mean 'to visit', such as visiting family. Example: 我会寻访我的家人 (Wǒ huì xúnfǎng wǒ de jiārén).
寻访 (xúnfǎng) is a noun.
寻访 (xúnfǎng) is a verb, meaning 'to seek out' or 'to interview'.
Greeting
Gratitude
Farewell
Read this aloud:
我爱中国
Focus: Wo ai Zhongguo
You said:
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Read this aloud:
你叫什么名字？
Focus: Ni jiao shenme mingzi?
You said:
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Read this aloud:
很高兴认识你
Focus: Hen gaoxing renshi ni
You said:
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Write a short sentence saying 'I like to find books.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我喜欢找书。
Write a short sentence saying 'He wants to find a friend.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
他想找朋友。
Write a short sentence saying 'My mother is looking for her phone.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
妈妈在找手机。
小明想找什么？
Read this passage:
小明喜欢吃苹果。他想找一个大苹果。
小明想找什么？
文章中提到'他想找一个大苹果。'
文章中提到'他想找一个大苹果。'
老师在找谁？
Read this passage:
老师在找学生。学生在哪里？
老师在找谁？
文章中提到'老师在找学生。'
文章中提到'老师在找学生。'
我正在找什么？
Read this passage:
我有一个猫。它喜欢玩。我正在找我的猫。
我正在找什么？
文章中提到'我正在找我的猫。'
文章中提到'我正在找我的猫。'
This sentence means 'I like to eat apples.' The correct order is Subject (我) + Verb (喜欢) + Verb (吃) + Object (苹果).
This sentence means 'She is a student.' The correct order is Subject (她) + Verb (是) + Quantity/Classifier (一个) + Noun (学生).
This is a common greeting, 'How are you?' The correct order is Pronoun (你) + Adjective (好) + Question Particle (吗).
她想去不同的城市______新的机会。
寻访 (xúnfǎng) means to seek out or interview. 寻找 (xúnzhǎo) means to look for. In this context, '寻找' fits better to express seeking out new opportunities in different cities.
记者去______一位著名的科学家。
寻访 (xúnfǎng) implies seeking out someone, often for an interview or to learn something. 拜访 (bàifǎng) means to visit, often formally. 访问 (fǎngwèn) can also mean to visit or interview, but 寻访 emphasizes the 'seeking out' aspect. 探望 (tànwàng) means to visit someone, usually out of concern or care. Here, '寻访' best describes a reporter's action to seek out a scientist for an interview.
我们正在______一个合适的房子。
寻访 (xúnfǎng) typically refers to seeking out people or places for investigation or interview. 寻找 (xúnzhǎo) and 找寻 (zhǎoxún) are more general terms for 'to look for' or 'to seek'. 找到 (zhǎodào) means 'to find' (past tense). In this sentence, '寻找' or '找寻' are more appropriate for looking for a house.
他喜欢______古老的村庄，了解历史。
寻访 (xúnfǎng) implies a purposeful search to discover or learn about something, fitting the context of exploring ancient villages to understand history. 参观 (cānguān) means to visit (a place), usually for sightseeing. 旅行 (lǚxíng) means to travel. 考察 (kǎochá) means to inspect or investigate, often formally. '寻访' captures the essence of seeking out and learning.
我希望有机会______我的童年老师。
寻访 (xúnfǎng) can be used when you are actively trying to find and meet someone, especially someone you haven't seen in a long time. 看望 (kànwàng) means to visit (a person), often out of care or concern. 问候 (wènhòu) means to greet or send regards. 拜访 (bàifǎng) means to visit, often more formally. '寻访' here implies seeking out an old teacher with the intention of reconnecting.
为了写书，作者______了许多当地人。
寻访 (xúnfǎng) can mean to interview, especially when seeking information or stories from people. 采访 (cǎifǎng) also means to interview, often by a reporter. 询问 (xúnwèn) means to inquire or ask. 交流 (jiāoliú) means to communicate or exchange. '寻访' highlights the author's effort to seek out many local people for the purpose of writing a book.
她想______一位有经验的老师。
‘寻访’在这里表示特意去寻找并拜访某人。'找到'是普通意义上的找，'看见'和'遇见'是偶然发生。
为了完成作业，我需要______当地的老人。
‘寻访’强调为了特定目的去寻找并拜访。'访问'更通用，'参观'是去某地看，'看望'是去看望亲友。
记者去偏远的山区______一位老艺术家。
‘寻访’在这里表示记者特意去寻找并采访这位艺术家。'找寻'和'寻找'是寻找，但不强调拜访。'发现'是找到。
“寻访”常用于形容特意去寻找并拜访某人或某个地方。
“寻访”的含义就是特意去寻找并拜访，通常带有探求、了解的意味。
当你偶然在街上遇到朋友时，你可以说你在“寻访”他。
“寻访”是主动、有目的地去寻找和拜访，而偶然遇到不是“寻访”。
如果你想了解一个地方的历史，你可以去“寻访”当地的古迹。
“寻访”可以用于寻找和了解地方，特别是带有历史或文化意义的地点。
He is looking for an old friend.
The reporter is going to seek out the local traditional culture.
Let's go together to seek out historical sites.
Read this aloud:
寻访旧时足迹
Focus: xún fǎng
You said:
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Read this aloud:
我喜欢寻访有特色的小店。
Focus: xún fǎng
You said:
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Read this aloud:
你能寻访到他吗？
Focus: xún fǎng
You said:
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Write a short sentence about looking for a friend in a new city. Use simple words.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我在新城市寻访我的朋友。
Imagine you are trying to find a good place to eat. Write a short sentence about seeking out a restaurant.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我正在寻访一家好吃的饭馆。
Write a sentence about interviewing someone for a school project.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我需要寻访一位老师来完成我的学生项目。
小明在北京想做什么？
Read this passage:
小明要去北京旅行。他想去寻访一些有意思的老地方，比如故宫和长城。他还想寻访当地的美食。
小明在北京想做什么？
文章中明确提到小明想去寻访一些有意思的老地方和当地的美食。
文章中明确提到小明想去寻访一些有意思的老地方和当地的美食。
老师让同学们做什么？
Read this passage:
老师让同学们寻访一些关于中国历史的资料。小红去了图书馆，小李上网查找。
老师让同学们做什么？
文章中说老师让同学们寻访一些关于中国历史的资料。
文章中说老师让同学们寻访一些关于中国历史的资料。
他们为什么要寻访这家咖啡馆？
Read this passage:
周末，我和朋友一起去寻访一家新开的咖啡馆。我们想知道那里的咖啡好不好喝。
他们为什么要寻访这家咖啡馆？
文章中说他们想知道那里的咖啡好不好喝。
文章中说他们想知道那里的咖啡好不好喝。
This sentence means 'He is looking for a job.' The basic word order in Chinese is Subject-Verb-Object.
This sentence means 'Where do you want to go to play?' '哪里' (nǎlǐ) means 'where'.
This sentence means 'Let's eat together tomorrow.' '明天' (míngtiān) means 'tomorrow', and '一起' (yīqǐ) means 'together'.
他计划去各地___当地的传统手工艺人。
‘寻访’ (xúnfǎng) means to seek out or interview, often with a purpose. In this context, it fits perfectly as he plans to seek out traditional artisans. ‘寻找’ (xúnzhǎo) is a more general 'to look for'. '发现' (fāxiàn) means 'to discover'. '参观' (cānguān) means 'to visit' as in a tourist attraction.
为了写这本书，作家___了很多历史遗迹。
‘寻访’ (xúnfǎng) implies a purposeful journey to find and learn about something, which is suitable for a writer researching historical sites. '访问' (fǎngwèn) often means 'to visit' or 'to interview' a person. '探索' (tànsuǒ) means 'to explore' generally. '调查' (diàochá) means 'to investigate' or 'to survey'.
记者正在___那些经历过战争的老兵，记录他们的故事。
‘寻访’ (xúnfǎng) is the best fit here, as the journalist is purposefully seeking out and interviewing veterans to document their stories. '寻问' (xúnwèn) means 'to inquire'. '寻找' (xúnzhǎo) is 'to look for'. '探访' (tànfǎng) means 'to visit' (a person or place), but '寻访' emphasizes the investigative or seeking aspect more strongly.
他花了几年时间___失散的亲人。
‘寻访’ (xúnfǎng) is appropriate here because it conveys the idea of actively seeking out and possibly interviewing people to find lost relatives. While '寻找' (xúnzhǎo) and '找寻' (zhǎoxún) also mean 'to look for', '寻访' suggests a more deliberate and extensive effort to locate someone through inquiries or visits. '探望' (tànwàng) means 'to visit' (a sick or elderly person).
为了了解传统文化，我们计划___偏远地区的村庄。
‘寻访’ (xúnfǎng) is the most suitable as it implies a purposeful trip to seek out and learn about traditional culture in remote villages. '参观' (cānguān) means 'to visit' (a place, often as a tourist). '游览' (yóulǎn) means 'to go sightseeing'. '考察' (kǎochá) means 'to inspect' or 'to investigate', which is a bit too formal for this context.
这位教授经常___民间艺术家，学习他们的技艺。
‘寻访’ (xúnfǎng) is the best choice here, as the professor is actively seeking out and engaging with folk artists to learn from them. '请教' (qǐngjiào) means 'to ask for advice'. '拜访' (bàifǎng) means 'to pay a visit'. '采访' (cǎifǎng) specifically means 'to interview' (for media purposes).
He is seeking out a long-lost old friend.
The reporter went to seek out local specialty foods.
Seeking out historical sites is one of the pleasures of travel.
Read this aloud:
你喜欢寻访什么样的地方？
Focus: xún fǎng
You said:
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Read this aloud:
如果你是一位记者，你会去寻访什么故事？
Focus: xún fǎng
You said:
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Read this aloud:
告诉我一个你曾寻访过的地方。
Focus: xún fǎng
You said:
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This sentence means 'He sought out many old experts.' The structure is Subject + 寻访 + (了) + Object.
This sentence means 'The reporter is seeking out news clues.' 正在 (zhèngzài) indicates an ongoing action.
This sentence means 'We went to seek out local specialty food.' 去 (qù) means 'to go'.
这位记者正在全国各地___失落的民间故事。(This journalist is ___ lost folk stories all over the country.)
“寻访”强调为了某个目的，主动去寻找和拜访。这里记者为了搜集故事而主动去寻找和拜访，故用“寻访”。
为了完成他的新书，他决定去偏远的山村___一位老手艺人。(To finish his new book, he decided to go to a remote mountain village to ___ an old craftsman.)
此处“寻访”表示为了获取信息或学习技艺而主动去寻找并拜访。
考古队深入沙漠，___传说中的古城遗址。(The archaeological team went deep into the desert to ___ the legendary ancient city ruins.)
“寻访”在这里指为了发现和考证而主动去寻找，符合考古队的行动。
这部纪录片记录了导演___一位隐居艺术家的过程。(This documentary chronicles the director's process of ___ a reclusive artist.)
“寻访”强调为了特定的目的，经过一番努力才找到并接触到对方。
我周末喜欢去古玩市场，___有故事的老物件。(On weekends, I like to go to antique markets to ___ old objects with stories.)
这里“寻访”指的是在众多物品中寻找那些有特色、有价值的，带有主动探寻的意味。
政府工作人员正在乡村___那些需要帮助的贫困家庭。(Government workers are ___ impoverished families in the countryside who need help.)
“寻访”在这里表示为了了解情况并提供帮助而主动去寻找和拜访。
她决定亲自寻访那位隐居的艺术家。
寻访 (xúnfǎng) means to seek out or to interview. In this context, 'seek out' fits better with 'reclusive artist'.
记者们四处寻访目击者，希望能获得更多线索。
Here, 寻访 (xúnfǎng) refers to actively looking for and finding witnesses, which is best translated as 'seek out'.
为了完成论文，他寻访了许多历史遗迹。
When used with 'historical sites', 寻访 (xúnfǎng) implies going to these places with the purpose of gaining information or understanding, so 'sought out' is appropriate.
在商业访谈中，'寻访' 意味着主动去寻找并接触潜在的商业伙伴。
Yes, '寻访' (xúnfǎng) in a business context often means actively seeking out and making contact with potential partners for interviews or discussions.
'寻访' 这个词通常用于形容在图书馆里查阅资料的行为。
No, '寻访' (xúnfǎng) implies physical movement and direct contact with people or places, not just passively looking up information in a library. For library research, one might use 查阅 (cháyuè) or 查找 (cházhǎo).
如果你想了解一个地方的风俗习惯，你可以说你去'寻访'当地的居民。
Yes, '寻访' (xúnfǎng) is suitable here, as it implies seeking out and engaging with local residents to understand their customs.
You are a journalist looking for a unique story. Describe what kind of person or place you would go '寻访' (xúnfǎng) and why.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
作为一名记者，我会去寻访那些在偏远山区默默奉献的老师，他们的故事一定很感人。 (As a journalist, I would seek out those teachers who are silently dedicating themselves in remote mountainous areas; their stories must be very touching.)
Imagine you are an explorer. What ancient ruins or hidden villages would you '寻访' (xúnfǎng) to uncover secrets? Explain your motivation.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我梦想着寻访那些未被世人发现的古老遗迹，希望能揭开历史的秘密。 (I dream of seeking out ancient ruins undiscovered by the world, hoping to uncover historical secrets.)
Describe a time when you had to '寻访' (xúnfǎng) someone or something to get important information or complete a task. What was the experience like?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
为了完成我的研究项目，我寻访了多位专家，这个过程让我学到了很多。 (To complete my research project, I sought out many experts; this process taught me a lot.)
这位摄影师为什么要去寻访传统手工艺人？ (Why did the photographer go to seek out traditional artisans?)
Read this passage:
一位年轻的摄影师决定开始一段旅程，去寻访那些即将消失的传统手工艺人。他认为这些手艺是文化的瑰宝，值得被记录和传承。在旅途中，他遇到了许多有趣的人和事，也学到了很多关于传统文化的知识。
这位摄影师为什么要去寻访传统手工艺人？ (Why did the photographer go to seek out traditional artisans?)
文章中明确提到“他认为这些手艺是文化的瑰宝，值得被记录和传承”，这是他寻访传统手工艺人的主要原因。(The passage clearly states, 'He believed these crafts were cultural treasures, worth documenting and passing on,' which is his main reason for seeking out traditional artisans.)
文章中明确提到“他认为这些手艺是文化的瑰宝，值得被记录和传承”，这是他寻访传统手工艺人的主要原因。(The passage clearly states, 'He believed these crafts were cultural treasures, worth documenting and passing on,' which is his main reason for seeking out traditional artisans.)
作家寻访的目的是什么？ (What was the writer's purpose in seeking out?)
Read this passage:
为了撰写一本关于地方美食的书，作家走遍了乡村小镇，寻访当地有名的厨师和特色餐馆。他品尝了各种独特的菜肴，并记录下了它们的制作方法和背后的故事。这段经历让他的书内容更加丰富。
作家寻访的目的是什么？ (What was the writer's purpose in seeking out?)
文章中提到“为了撰写一本关于地方美食的书，作家走遍了乡村小镇，寻访当地有名的厨师和特色餐馆”，所以他是为了写书而寻访。 (The passage mentions, 'To write a book about local cuisine, the writer traveled through small towns, seeking out famous local chefs and特色 restaurants,' so he was seeking out for the purpose of writing a book.)
文章中提到“为了撰写一本关于地方美食的书，作家走遍了乡村小镇，寻访当地有名的厨师和特色餐馆”，所以他是为了写书而寻访。 (The passage mentions, 'To write a book about local cuisine, the writer traveled through small towns, seeking out famous local chefs and特色 restaurants,' so he was seeking out for the purpose of writing a book.)
考古学家们寻访的地点是哪里？ (Where did the archaeologists seek out?)
Read this passage:
考古学家们花费了数年时间，在沙漠中寻访古代文明的遗迹。他们的目标是找到失落的城市，并揭示古人类的生活方式。虽然过程艰辛，但每一次的发现都让他们兴奋不已。
考古学家们寻访的地点是哪里？ (Where did the archaeologists seek out?)
文章中明确指出“考古学家们花费了数年时间，在沙漠中寻访古代文明的遗迹”。(The passage clearly states that 'archaeologists spent several years seeking out the relics of ancient civilizations in the desert.')
文章中明确指出“考古学家们花费了数年时间，在沙漠中寻访古代文明的遗迹”。(The passage clearly states that 'archaeologists spent several years seeking out the relics of ancient civilizations in the desert.')
The correct order is 'He sought out for the truth of history.'
The correct order is 'The reporter is currently seeking out the opinions of local residents.'
The correct order is 'We need to seek out an experienced consultant.'
这位历史学家花了数年时间在偏远地区___古老的传说。
“寻访”在这里表示特意去寻找并探究，符合历史学家探寻传说的语境。
记者计划___当地居民，了解他们对新政策的看法。
“寻访”强调主动去寻找并进行访问，与记者了解民意的行为吻合。
为了完成这部纪录片，导演团队周游全国，___那些被遗忘的传统手工艺人。
“寻访”准确表达了导演团队主动且有目的地去寻找和拜访手工艺人的过程。
他独自一人深入山区，___一位隐居多年的老中医。
“寻访”在此处指为了特定目的，不辞辛劳地去寻找并拜访，贴合语境。
为了写一本关于民间故事的书，她___了许多偏远村落的年长者。
“寻访”强调为了收集资料或信息，主动去寻找并访问特定人群。
古生物学家团队___了这片沙漠中的每一个角落，希望找到新的化石证据。
虽然其他选项也有“寻找”之意，但“寻访”更侧重于主动且有目的地去寻找并探查，常用于寻找人、地点或特定信息，此处用于“角落”带有比喻意味，指仔细搜寻。
公司正在___一位经验丰富的软件工程师。
“寻访”强调主动地寻找和访问，符合公司寻找人才的语境。
记者们四处___当地居民，以获取第一手资料。
“寻访”在此处表示记者为了采访目的而到处寻找和访问，非常贴切。
他花了一生的时间___古代的智慧和秘密。
“寻访”可以用于抽象概念的寻求，如智慧、秘密等，强调探索和发现的过程。
“寻访”只能用来指寻找具体的人或地点。
“寻访”也可以用于抽象概念的寻求，如智慧、秘密或线索。
当你需要深入了解某事或某人时，使用“寻访”比“拜访”更合适。
“寻访”含有主动地寻找和深入了解的意味，而“拜访”更侧重于礼节性的访问。
“寻访”和“调查”在任何情况下都可以互换使用。
“调查”更强调系统性地收集信息和分析，而“寻访”更侧重于亲自寻找和访问。它们在具体语境下有区别。
Listen for who is being sought out.
What are the reporters looking for?
Who did she interview for her thesis?
Read this aloud:
你可以用“寻访”来描述你去一个新城市寻找当地特色美食的经历吗？
Focus: xún fǎng
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
谈谈你有没有过寻访某个专家或导师的经历。
Focus: xún fǎng
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
如果你想了解一个地方的文化，你会选择怎样的方式去寻访？
Focus: xún fǎng
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
You are a journalist preparing to write a feature story on traditional Chinese craftsmanship. Describe how you would '寻访' (seek out/interview) artisans for your article. Include the types of questions you would ask and the challenges you might face.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
为了撰写关于传统中国手工艺的专题报道，我计划寻访那些世代相传的民间艺人。我会先通过地方志和文化机构寻找线索，然后亲自登门拜访。在采访过程中，我会重点了解他们的学艺经历、技艺特点、作品背后的故事以及他们对传承这门手艺的看法。我预计会遇到的挑战包括语言沟通障碍（尤其是在偏远地区）、艺人不愿透露祖传秘方，以及他们的时间安排与我的采访时间冲突。
Imagine you are a detective assigned to a missing persons case. Describe your initial steps to '寻访' (seek out) information about the missing person's last known whereabouts and connections. What kind of people would you talk to first?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
在处理失踪人口案件时，我的首要任务是寻访关于失踪者最后已知行踪和人际关系的信息。我会从失踪者的家属和亲密朋友开始，了解他们的生活习惯、最近的异常行为和可能前往的地点。接着，我会走访邻居、同事以及任何可能与失踪者有过接触的人，寻找目击证词或任何有助于提供线索的细节。
You are planning a historical research project on an ancient dynasty. Explain how you would '寻访' (seek out) primary sources and historical sites to gather information. What kind of sources would you prioritize?
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
对于一项关于古代王朝的历史研究项目，我会先在各大图书馆和档案馆寻访史料，例如官方文献、私人日记和地方志。同时，我也会前往相关的历史遗址和博物馆进行实地考察，通过考古发现和文物来验证或补充书面记录。我将优先查阅第一手资料，如当时的历史记载和官方诏令，以确保信息的原始性和准确性。
根据文章，历史学家团队寻访的主要目的是什么？
Read this passage:
近日，一支由历史学家组成的团队，耗时数年，跋山涉水，深入偏远山区寻访古代文化遗迹。他们希望通过这次寻访，能够揭示一些不为人知的历史真相，并为当地的文化保护提供新的思路。此次考察不仅发现了多处保存完好的石刻和古建筑群，还与当地的少数民族居民进行了深入交流，记录了许多口述历史。
根据文章，历史学家团队寻访的主要目的是什么？
文章明确提到“他们希望通过这次寻访，能够揭示一些不为人知的历史真相，并为当地的文化保护提供新的思路。”
文章明确提到“他们希望通过这次寻访，能够揭示一些不为人知的历史真相，并为当地的文化保护提供新的思路。”
张华寻访老艺人的原因是什么？
Read this passage:
作家张华为了撰写一部关于传统手工艺人的小说，决定亲自下乡寻访那些依然坚持传统技艺的老艺人。他相信，只有亲身接触这些匠人，才能真正理解他们的生活和情感，才能写出有血有肉的作品。在寻访过程中，他不仅收集了大量素材，还被艺人们对技艺的执着精神深深打动。
张华寻访老艺人的原因是什么？
文章指出“作家张华为了撰写一部关于传统手工艺人的小说，决定亲自下乡寻访那些依然坚持传统技艺的老艺人。”
文章指出“作家张华为了撰写一部关于传统手工艺人的小说，决定亲自下乡寻访那些依然坚持传统技艺的老艺人。”
文章中提到的年轻人寻访美食的目的不包括以下哪一项？
Read this passage:
在当今社会，许多年轻人热衷于寻访各种特色小吃和隐秘的餐馆。他们通过社交媒体分享自己的美食探险经历，不仅满足了味蕾，也拓展了社交圈。这种寻访美食的方式，已经成为了一种新的生活潮流。
文章中提到的年轻人寻访美食的目的不包括以下哪一项？
文章提到了满足味蕾、拓展社交圈和分享美食探险经历，但没有提及制作美食纪录片。
文章提到了满足味蕾、拓展社交圈和分享美食探险经历，但没有提及制作美食纪录片。
This sentence describes 'he' searching for an 'old Chinese doctor' for many years. The correct order places the time '多年' before the action '寻访'.
This sentence means 'we' are 'seeking out' 'historical traces' 'in the ancient town'. The location '在古镇中' comes before the action '寻访'.
This sentence indicates that 'the reporter' 'went deep into' 'the accident scene' to 'seek out' 'the truth'. The action '深入' (went deep into) precedes '寻访' (seek out) and the object '真相' (truth) follows '寻访'.
这位历史学家正在世界各地___古代文明的遗迹。
寻访 (xúnfǎng) implies actively seeking out or searching for something, often with a specific purpose or goal, like a historian looking for ancient ruins. 访问 (fǎngwèn) means to visit, 探访 (tànfǎng) means to explore, and 拜访 (bàifǎng) means to pay a formal visit.
为了完成他的纪录片，导演花了数年时间___那些鲜为人知的民间艺术家。
寻访 (xúnfǎng) is the most suitable as it means to seek out or interview, which aligns with a director's process of finding and engaging with artists for a documentary. 寻找 (xúnzhǎo) is a general term for 'to look for,' 查找 (cházhǎo) means 'to search for' in a more systematic way (like in a database), and 搜索 (sōusuǒ) means 'to search,' often digitally.
记者深入贫困地区，___当地居民的生活状况，以期揭示社会问题。
寻访 (xúnfǎng) fits best here as it conveys the idea of actively seeking out and interviewing people to understand their situation, which is typical for investigative journalism. 调查 (diàochá) means 'to investigate' (more formal and systematic), 询问 (xúnwèn) means 'to ask,' and 采访 (cǎifǎng) means 'to interview' (more direct and scheduled).
他独自一人踏上旅程，旨在___传说中的隐士，寻求智慧。
寻访 (xúnfǎng) emphasizes the active seeking out of someone, often with a sense of purpose or discovery, which is appropriate for someone looking for a legendary hermit. 拜访 (bàifǎng) is a formal visit, 探望 (tànwàng) is to visit someone (often to check on them), and 访问 (fǎngwèn) is a general visit.
人类学家们长期致力于___那些濒临消失的少数民族文化。
寻访 (xúnfǎng) suggests the active process of finding and engaging with these cultures and their people to learn about them, which is a core activity for anthropologists. 探索 (tànsuǒ) means 'to explore' (more about unknown places), 研究 (yánjiū) means 'to research' (more academic), and 保护 (bǎohù) means 'to protect' (the outcome, not the action of finding).
为了揭开案件的真相，侦探不辞辛苦，___每一个可能的线索和目击者。
寻访 (xúnfǎng) is the best fit as it indicates the active process of seeking out and interviewing witnesses or examining clues. 跟踪 (gēnzōng) means 'to follow' (a person), 追踪 (zhuīzōng) means 'to track' (a lead or progress), and 发现 (fāxiàn) means 'to discover' (the result, not the action).
在这次文化考察中，我们有幸______了一位隐居多年的老艺术家。
“寻访”强调主动寻找并探访，与“隐居多年”的语境非常契合。
为了完成这部纪录片，导演团队深入山区______当地的民间传说和风俗习惯。
“寻访”在这里表示为了某个目的去主动寻找并探问，符合“深入山区”探求“民间传说和风俗习惯”的语境。
这家媒体计划派遣记者______那些在偏远地区默默奉献的教育工作者。
“寻访”在这里是主动去探访、采访，并带有一定的敬意和探求精神，符合语境。
“寻访”通常指的是为了某个特定目的，主动去寻找并探访某人或某地。
“寻访”确实强调主动性、目的性和探访性。
当你想去拜访一位已经约定好的朋友时，使用“寻访”是完全恰当的。
“寻访”带有寻找和探问的意味，对于已经约定好的朋友，更常用“拜访”或“看望”。
一个侦探在调查案件时，会“寻访”线索和目击者。
侦探需要主动寻找和探问线索及目击者，这正是“寻访”的典型用法。
The sentence describes someone traveling extensively to find ancient books.
The sentence is about a director interviewing witnesses for a documentary.
The sentence mentions a journalist searching for rare wildlife in the mountains.
Read this aloud:
如果你想了解当地的风俗人情，最好寻访一下那些上了年纪的老人。
Focus: 寻访 (xún fǎng)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
考古队正在沙漠中寻访传说中的古城遗址。
Focus: 寻访 (xún fǎng)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
我正在寻访一位能够帮助我解决这个技术难题的专家。
Focus: 寻访 (xún fǎng)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
你认为在历史研究中，寻访口述历史的重要性是什么？请举例说明。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
我认为在历史研究中，寻访口述历史具有不可替代的重要性。口述历史能够提供书面资料中难以获得的个人视角和情感体验，补充官方记载的不足。例如，通过寻访二战幸存者，我们可以更深入地了解战争给普通民众带来的创伤和记忆，这比单纯阅读历史文献更具说服力。这些第一手资料对于还原历史细节、丰富历史维度具有关键作用。
描述一次你曾寻访某地或某人的经历，并说明你寻访的目的和结果。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
去年夏天，我曾寻访位于云南边境的一个古老村落，目的是了解当地少数民族的传统文化和生活习俗。通过与村里的老人交谈，我深入了解了他们的传统歌舞、手工艺制作以及独特的信仰体系。这次寻访让我对多元文化有了更深刻的理解，也收集到了宝贵的田野资料，远远超出了我最初的预期。
在进行一次深度采访时，你认为寻访者应该具备哪些品质和技巧？
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Sample answer
我认为在进行深度采访时，寻访者应具备多方面的品质和技巧。首先，要有耐心和真诚的倾听能力，让受访者感受到被尊重和理解。其次，要善于提问，既能引导受访者深入阐述，又不至于显得过于强势。此外，保持中立客观的态度，以及较强的应变能力，都是成功寻访不可或缺的要素。
根据文段，尤瓦尔·赫拉利在写作《人类简史》时，寻访专家学者的主要目的是什么？
Read this passage:
《人类简史》的作者尤瓦尔·赫拉利在写作过程中，不仅查阅了大量历史文献，还广泛寻访了各领域的专家学者，以确保其论点的严谨性和说服力。他相信，只有通过多角度的考察和深度访谈，才能构建出宏大而准确的历史叙事。
根据文段，尤瓦尔·赫拉利在写作《人类简史》时，寻访专家学者的主要目的是什么？
文段明确指出，他“广泛寻访了各领域的专家学者，以确保其论点的严谨性和说服力”。
文段明确指出，他“广泛寻访了各领域的专家学者，以确保其论点的严谨性和说服力”。
李教授寻访传承人的主要目的是什么？
Read this passage:
为了撰写一本关于地方民俗文化的书，李教授花了数年时间在偏远山区寻访那些濒临失传的传统技艺传承人。他不仅记录了他们的口述历史，还亲身体验了这些技艺的制作过程，力求最真实地呈现这些文化遗产。
李教授寻访传承人的主要目的是什么？
文段第一句就指出“为了撰写一本关于地方民俗文化的书，李教授花了数年时间在偏远山区寻访那些濒临失传的传统技艺传承人”。
文段第一句就指出“为了撰写一本关于地方民俗文化的书，李教授花了数年时间在偏远山区寻访那些濒临失传的传统技艺传承人”。
这位年轻记者最终能够成功寻访到老艺术家的关键因素是什么？
Read this passage:
一位年轻的记者被派去寻访一位隐居多年的老艺术家。起初，老艺术家对她的到来表现得非常冷淡，但记者凭借自己的真诚和耐心，最终打开了老艺术家的话匣子，获得了许多宝贵的独家信息。
这位年轻记者最终能够成功寻访到老艺术家的关键因素是什么？
文段提到“记者凭借自己的真诚和耐心，最终打开了老艺术家的话匣子”。
文段提到“记者凭借自己的真诚和耐心，最终打开了老艺术家的话匣子”。
This sentence describes someone seeking out folk artists and documenting their stories. The structure is Subject + 寻访 (verb) + Object + 了 (completion marker) + additional action.
This sentence explains that the author went deep into remote areas to seek out information for their book. 寻访 acts as the verb describing the purpose of going to these areas.
This sentence describes a reporter in the process of seeking out the truth of an incident. 正在 indicates an ongoing action, and 寻访 is the main verb.
/ 162 correct
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Summary
Use 寻访 when you need to actively go out and find someone or something, especially for research or a specific purpose.
- B1
- search
- interview
Basic Meaning
The core meaning of 寻访 (xúnfǎng) is to seek out or search for someone or something, usually with a specific purpose or intention.
Interview Context
When 寻访 is used in the context of people, it often implies interviewing them, especially for information or a story. Think of a reporter or a researcher.
Historical/Cultural Seeking
It's commonly used for seeking out places, artifacts, or people with historical or cultural significance. You 寻访 ancient sites or old masters.
Example: Seeking a Master
他四处寻访一位武术大师。 (Tā sìchù xúnfǎng yī wèi wǔshù dàshī.) - He sought out a martial arts master everywhere.
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