Irregular verbs  Regular verbs

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seek, seeks, seeking, sought

Synonyms: search for, pursue, look for, hunt, strive for

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Antonyms: avoid, shun, ignore, abandon, elude

The Verb Seek – Definition, Usage, and Clarification


The verb seek is a formal, irregular verb that means to try to find or obtain something. It is often used for abstract concepts like justice, knowledge, or permission, rather than physical objects.


VERB FORMS


■ Base Form: seek
■ Past Simple: sought
■ Past Participle: sought
■ Present Participle/Gerund: seeking


USAGE AND CONTEXT


'Seek' is a more serious and deliberate verb than 'look for.'


1. Searching for Abstract Things
This is the most common context for the verb.


■ Concepts: 'The organization seeks justice for victims of the crime.'
■ Information: 'She moved to the city to seek her fortune.'
■ Help/Advice: 'You should seek medical attention immediately.'


2. To Attempt or Try (Formal)
In formal writing, 'seek' can mean to attempt to do something.


■ Formal: 'The committee will seek to find a solution that is fair to everyone.'


ℹ IMPORTANT: FORMAL TONE AND USAGE


■ Formal vs. Informal: 'Seek' is more formal than 'look for.' You look for your keys, but you seek knowledge. Using 'seek' in a casual context can sound overly dramatic.


■ 'Sought-after': The past participle is often used in the adjective phrase 'sought-after,' which means 'popular' or 'in high demand.'
■ Example: 'This is a highly sought-after model of the classic car.'