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seek for

B2 formal inseparable transitive

To try to find or obtain something; a more formal or literary alternative to 'look for'.

In plain English

To try to find something.

What does "seek for" mean?

2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.

1 B2 formal

To try to find or obtain something, especially something abstract such as truth, meaning, or justice.

"The philosopher spent his life seeking for absolute truth."

Seek for the truth in all things.

inseparable
2 C1 formal

To ask for or request something from someone (archaic use).

"He sought for permission from the council before proceeding."

inseparable
Usage tip

Largely archaic or literary in modern English. Contemporary speakers almost always prefer 'look for', 'search for', or simply 'seek' without the particle. Found more often in older texts, religious writing, or poetry.

Words that pair with "seek for"

Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.

truth answers meaning justice refuge approval

How to conjugate "seek for"

The five tense forms you'll use most often.

Base
seek for
I/you/we/they
3rd person
seeks for
he/she/it
Past simple
seeked for
yesterday
Past participle
seeked for
have + pp
-ing form
seeking for
continuous

Hear "seek for" in the wild

Listen to native speakers using "seek for" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.

Keep exploring

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