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search for

A2 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words

To try to find something or someone

Literal meaning: To search (look carefully) for something — fully transparent

Meanings

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."

Grammar: inseparable
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."

Grammar: 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."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

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.

Commonly used with

information answers truth solution job missing

Forms

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

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Synonyms

look for seek hunt for try to find be in search of scout for

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