verb

chercher

look for · look

Essayer de trouver quelque chose ou quelqu’un.

The French verb "chercher" translates to "to search" or "to look for" in English. It refers to the action of trying to find something or someone.

Meaning:

  1. To search for something: This is the primary meaning, as in looking for an object, information, or a person.
  2. To seek someone out: For instance, you might chercher une personne (look for a person).
  3. To pursue a goal or desired result: It can also imply a more abstract sense of looking for success or answers.

Synonyms and Differences:

  • Recherche: This noun translates to "research" and is often used in a more formal or academic context, implying a systematic or thorough search for information, rather than a casual or straightforward one.
  • Explorer: This verb means "to explore," which encompasses searching but adds more elements of discovery and investigation, often used in contexts like traveling or examining new territory or ideas.
  • Sonder: This means "to probe" or "to sound out." It often pertains to searching deeply or investigating, typically used in more intellectual or introspective contexts.

In summary, while "chercher" generally conveys the idea of looking for something, its synonyms can imply different depths, emphases, or types of searching.

Make “chercher” part of your vocabulary.

Build your French vocabulary with flashcards, audio and spaced repetition.

Examples

Tu peux chercher ton sac ici.verb

You can look for your bag here.

Tu veux chercher un livre à la bibliothèque ?verb

Do you want to look for a book at the library?

Ils cherchent une solution.verb

They are looking for a solution.

Je cherche des fruits au marché.verb

I am looking for fruit at the market.

Keep exploring French

Learn words from the content you love.

Add words from websites, books and videos, then remember them with spaced repetition (SRS).