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Definition
To seek, search for, or look for something needed, most commonly help or assistance.
neutraldaily actionscommunication
How it's used
Carries a formal or serious tone compared to the everyday word 搵. It is typically reserved for abstract concepts like assistance, advice, or justice rather than physical objects. You would use it in professional or academic contexts, whereas 搵 is the go to choice for finding lost keys or a person.
Examples
Whenever he is in trouble, he always likes to seek help.
Have you sought any advice when you encountered things you didn't understand?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often use this for finding physical items, which sounds unnatural. Use 搵 for finding a lost wallet or a friend, and reserve 尋求 for abstract goals like 尋求突破 or 尋求真相.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
