What is seek? Pronunciation and usage in English

seek means . Learn how to pronounce and use seek through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of seek

seekverb

/siːk/
Definition & pronunciation of seek

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "seek" in English. There are a couple of common pronunciations, and it depends a little on where you're from. Here's a breakdown:

1. The Most Common American Pronunciation:

  • Sounds like: "sik" (rhymes with "bike")
  • Breakdown:
    • "si" – Pronounced like the "si" in "sit."
    • "k" – Pronounced clearly like the "k" in "kite."

2. The British Pronunciation:

  • Sounds like: "leek" (rhymes with "peek")
  • Breakdown:
    • "li" – Pronounced like the "li" in "lip."
    • "k" – Pronounced clearly like the "k" in "kite."

Resources to Listen:

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Usage and examples with the word seek in English

Let's break down how to use the word "seek" in English. It's a versatile word with a few different nuances, so understanding the context is key.

1. Core Meaning: To Try to Find or Obtain

At its most basic, "seek" means to try to find something – a place, a person, information, or an answer. It implies an active effort.

  • Example: "I seek my lost keys." (I'm trying to find my lost keys.)
  • Example: "She sought information about the company's history." (She tried to find information.)
  • Example: "The hiker sought shelter from the rain." (He tried to find protection from the rain.)

2. "Seek" vs. "Search" – A Common Confusion

"Seek" and "search" are often used interchangeably, but there's a subtle difference:

  • Search generally implies a more frantic, random, and sometimes less organized effort. Think of rummaging through a drawer.

  • Seek suggests a more deliberate, thoughtful, and often planned approach. It implies a goal or intention.

  • Example (Search): "I searched the entire house for my wallet." (Implies a chaotic look.)

  • Example (Seek): "I sought a quiet place to study." (Implies a specific destination and intention.)

3. "Seek" as a Verb – More Formal Usage

"Seek" is often considered a slightly more formal word than "look" or "find." You’ll often hear it in written English, especially in academic or professional contexts.

  • Example: "The company sought advice from legal counsel." (More formal than "looked for advice.")
  • Example: "He sought forgiveness from his friend." (Formal way to express asking for forgiveness.)

4. "Seek" as a Noun (Less Common)

"Seek" can also be used as a noun, meaning a desire or attempt to find or obtain something.

  • Example: “His seek for approval was evident in his every action.” (His desire for approval was obvious.)
  • Example: "The city’s seek for investment attracted many businesses." (The city's efforts to attract investment.)

5. Common Phrases with "Seek"

  • Seek counsel: To ask for advice from someone wise or experienced.
  • Seek solace: To find comfort and relief from sadness or distress.
  • Seek permission: To ask for authorization to do something.
  • Seek redress: To try to correct a wrong or injustice.

Here's a table summarizing the uses:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Verb To try to find/obtain "I seek a new job."
Verb (Formal) To try to find "He sought answers to the questions."
Noun A desire/attempt to find "His seek for peace was admirable."

Resources for Further Learning:

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Synonyms for the word seek

Idioms of the word seek

seek your fortune
(literary)to try to find a way to become rich, especially by going to another place
  • Many emigrated to Australia to seek their fortune.

Practice with vocabulary seek

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Many academic researchers often _______ new theories and evidence to support their hypotheses.
  2. The company decided to _______ a global conference to discuss the future of renewable energy.
  3. Employees experiencing workplace discrimination should always _______ legal advice.
  4. After the initial audit, the project manager will _______ to implement new efficiency measures.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following phrases are suitable formal alternatives for "look for a solution"? a) pursue a solution b) search for a solution c) seek a solution d) find a solution

  2. What action might a student take if they are struggling with a challenging course? a) ignore the difficulties b) seek assistance from the professor c) ask questions during lectures d) pursue additional tutoring

  3. Which word best completes the sentence: "The lawyer will _______ compensation for his client after the accident." a) claim b) demand c) request d) investigate

  4. Innovative companies often strive to: a) develop groundbreaking products b) acquire smaller competitors c) seek market dominance d) maintain the status quo e) secure intellectual property rights

  5. Which word implies a strong, often ambitious, desire to achieve a specific goal or status? a) wish b) dream c) aspire d) desire

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: If you have any questions, you should ask for clarification from the instructor. Rewrite:
  2. Original: They are currently looking for talented individuals to join their team. Rewrite:
  3. Original: He strongly wishes to achieve success in his new venture. Rewrite:

Answer:

Exercise 1:

  1. seek
  2. convene
  3. seek
  4. pursue

Exercise 2:

  1. a) pursue a solution, c) seek a solution
  2. b) seek assistance from the professor, c) ask questions during lectures, d) pursue additional tutoring
  3. a) claim, b) demand
  4. a) develop groundbreaking products, b) acquire smaller competitors, c) seek market dominance, e) secure intellectual property rights
  5. c) aspire

Exercise 3:

  1. If you have any questions, you should seek clarification from the instructor.
  2. They are currently seeking talented individuals to join their team.
  3. He aspires to achieve success in his new venture.

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