to seek

JLPT N5 6 strokes

Words with this Kanji

Usage and Meaning

The character (xún) primarily means "to seek" or "to look for." It is often used in contexts involving searching for physical objects, information, or assistance.

Common Collocations

  • 寻找 (xúnzhǎo): to look for, to seek
  • 寻求 (xúnqiú): to seek (help, advice, opportunities)
  • (xúnrén): to look for a person

Usage Notes

is more formal and literary compared to (zhǎo), which is more colloquial for "to look for." When combined with (qiú), it emphasizes actively seeking something intangible like help or advice.

Common Confusion

Avoid confusing with (xún), which means "to inquire" or "to ask." They share the same pronunciation but differ in meaning and usage.

Example Sentences

He is seeking a book about history in the library.

The police are searching for clues to solve the case.

He seeks his friends' help to solve the problem.