"in search of" vs "in search for"

Question

"in search of" vs "in search for"

Both 'in search of' and 'in search for' are correct, but 'in search of' is more commonly used in English. They are interchangeable in many contexts, but 'in search of' is considered more formal and idiomatic.

Last Updated: March 23, 2024

This phrase is used to indicate looking for something or someone. It is idiomatic and more formal.

Examples:

I am in search of a new job.
They are in search of the missing keys.
She is in search of the perfect gift.
The detective is in search of clues.
In search of a better life, he moved to a new country.

Alternatives:

looking for
seeking
searching for
on the lookout for
trying to find

This phrase is also used to indicate looking for something or someone, but it is less common and considered slightly less idiomatic than 'in search of'.

Examples:

They are in search for a new house.
He is in search for the truth.
In search for inspiration, she traveled to a new city.
The team is in search for a new leader.
In search for answers, he consulted with experts.

Alternatives:

looking for
seeking
searching for
on the lookout for
trying to find

Answer 1

in search of

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

in search for

This phrase is correct but less common in English.

"in search of" vs "in search for"

in search of

in search for

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