Comprehensive Article on the Word “Seeks”
Definition and Part of Speech
The word “seeks” is primarily used as a verb. It means to attempt to find or obtain something through effort or search. It conveys the action of trying to achieve, discover, or attain an objective. The infinitive form of the verb is “seek.”
Core Synonyms
Below are some main synonyms for “seeks,” along with their definitions, usage examples, and style notes.
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pursues | Implies a more active or determined effort | “She pursues excellence in every aspect of her career.” | Formal, Business |
| Searches for | Indicates looking actively or investigating | “The scientist searches for answers to the unexplained phenomenon.” | Academic, Informal |
| Aspires | Focuses on a desire for achievement | “He aspires to become a renowned musician.” | Informal, Casual |
| Aims at | Suggests targeting or intending toward something | “Her aim is to improve community relations through volunteer work.” | Formal, Academic |
| Chases | Often implies speed and determination | “The journalist chases the lead for an exclusive story.” | Informal, Casual |
Usage Notes
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Pursues: Best used in contexts where persistence or a sustained effort is being highlighted. It’s common in professional and academic settings to describe long-term goals.
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Searches for: Suitable when the focus is on investigation or inquiry. Often utilized in scientific or detective-like scenarios.
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Aspires: Used when talking about ambitions or goals, particularly personal ones. This term often appears in motivational contexts.
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Aims at: Appropriate for discussing specific targets or objectives. It can be used in strategic planning and goal-setting discussions.
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Chases: Conveys urgency and determination. Commonly found in casual conversation and storytelling when describing a vigorous pursuit.
Common Pitfalls
One common pitfall is using “seeks” interchangeably with words like “searches for” without considering the context of effort or intention. For example, “He seeks knowledge” implies an ongoing quest, while “He searches for his keys” suggests looking for something specific and possibly lost. Another confusion might arise between “aspires to” and “seeks,” where the former implies a wishful goal rather than an active search.
Final Recap
In summary, synonyms like “pursues,” “searches for,” “aspires,” “aims at,” and “chases” each offer different shades of meaning when compared to “seeks.” Understanding these nuances allows for more precise expression. Practice using these words in sentences relevant to your context, whether it be academic writing or casual conversation, to enhance your vocabulary and communication skills.