Translation guide
The English verb 'seek' covers a range of meanings from actively searching for something to trying to obtain or achieve something. This guide organizes the most common and useful Japanese expressions by these meanings, focusing on natural, everyday usage.
To try to find something or someone, often a physical object or person.
The most common and general verb for 'look for' or 'search for'. Used for concrete objects, people, and abstract things like jobs or information.
I'm looking for my keys.
Often written with this kanji when the nuance is 'searching for something lost or missing', like a missing person or lost item. In practice, 探す is more common in everyday writing.
To try to get or achieve something, such as advice, help, permission, or an abstract goal.
To try or attempt to do something, often with an effort.
A grammar pattern meaning 'try to do' or 'attempt to do'. Attach to the volitional form of a verb. Very common and natural.
To deliberately search for someone or something, often with the nuance of going out of one's way.
I'm seeking a new job.
警察が行方不明者を捜している。
The police are searching for the missing person.
A more intense or literary expression meaning 'to seek out' or 'to search for earnestly'. Implies a deeper, sometimes spiritual quest.
He is seeking the meaning of life.
The standard verb for 'seek' in the sense of requesting, desiring, or pursuing something abstract. Commonly used with nouns like 助言 (advice), 援助 (assistance), 許可 (permission).
He sought advice from a lawyer.
We are seeking peace.
A common pattern meaning 'in search of' or 'seeking'. Often used in set phrases like 職を求めて (seeking employment).
He came to Tokyo seeking work.
Means 'to pursue' in a more active, determined way. Often used for goals, ideals, happiness, or profit. Slightly more formal than 求める.
He is pursuing happiness.
A formal, somewhat old-fashioned verb meaning 'to ask for' or 'to seek' (e.g., forgiveness, permission). Rare in daily conversation.
He sought forgiveness.
He sought to solve the problem.
We are seeking to find out the truth.
Means 'to endeavor' or 'to strive'. Used when making a conscious effort. Often followed by 〜ように努める.
He sought to arrive on time.
A compound verb meaning 'to find out' or 'to track down'. Emphasizes successfully locating something after searching.
I sought out his whereabouts.
Means 'to visit' or 'to call on' someone. Can be used when 'seeking someone out' for advice or company.
He sought out his teacher for advice.
What are you seeking? (overly formal)
探す is for concrete searching (objects, people, information). 求める is for abstract desires or requests (advice, peace, permission). Using 探す for abstract things can sound odd, and 求める for physical objects is usually too formal.