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.

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