1 A2 neutral
To try to find a person, object, or place by looking carefully
"We searched for the missing key for over an hour before finding it in the coat pocket."
inseparable
search for
A2 neutral inseparable transitive
To try to find someone or something by looking carefully
In plain English
To try to find something or someone
What does "search for" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 A2 neutral
To look for information, especially using a computer, search engine, or database
"I searched for his name online but couldn't find any results."
inseparable
3 B1 neutral
To try to find or obtain something abstract, such as meaning, truth, or happiness
"She spent years searching for a sense of purpose after leaving the army."
“
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal... they are searching for something better.
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To search (look carefully) for something — fully transparent
Actually means
To try to find something or someone
Usage tip
One of the most fundamental and frequently used phrasal verbs in English. Used in everyday contexts, internet searching, and formal situations alike. 'Search for' implies more effort or thoroughness than 'look for'. Preposition 'for' is fixed and cannot be omitted.
Words that pair with "search for"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
information answers truth solution job missing
How to conjugate "search for"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
search for
I/you/we/they
3rd person
searches for
he/she/it
Past simple
searched for
yesterday
Past participle
searched for
have + pp
-ing form
searching for
continuous
Hear "search for" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "search for" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "search for"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.