"in search of" vs "in the search for"

Question

"in search of" vs "in the search for"

Both 'in search of' and 'in the search for' are correct phrases used to indicate looking for something. 'In search of' is more commonly used and considered more idiomatic in English. 'In the search for' is also correct but less common.

Last Updated: March 23, 2024

This phrase is used to indicate that someone is looking for something or trying to find something.

Examples:

He went in search of his lost keys.
She is in search of a new job.
They are in search of the perfect gift.
The explorers set out in search of the lost city.
In search of adventure, they traveled to a remote island.

Alternatives:

looking for
seeking
trying to find
on the hunt for
in pursuit of

This phrase is also used to indicate looking for something, but it is less commonly used than 'in search of'.

Examples:

They are in the search for a new house.
In the search for answers, he consulted various experts.
She is in the search for her missing cat.
In the search for truth, they delved into ancient texts.
The team is in the search for a new leader.

Alternatives:

looking for
seeking
trying to find
on the hunt for
in pursuit of

Answer 1

in search of

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English.

Answer 2

in the search for

This phrase is correct but less common than 'in search of'.

"in search of" vs "in the search for"

in search of

in the search for

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