wan2

Jyutpingwan2
Yalewán
動詞Very common

Definition

To look for, find, or earn.

  1. to look for; to search
  2. to find; to seek out
  3. to earn (money)
colloquialdaily actionsmoney

How it's used

Beyond the literal meaning of searching for an object, this is the standard verb for earning a salary. It is extremely versatile and frequently replaces more formal verbs like 尋找 or 賺取 in everyday speech. When used to mean meeting someone, it implies a purposeful visit or contact rather than a chance encounter.

Examples

What are you looking for?
Their job earns a lot of money.

Common phrases

to earn money
to look for a job
to look for someone

Common mistake

Do not confuse this with 買, which means to buy. Learners sometimes mistakenly use 搵 when they intend to purchase something at a shop.

Grammar color guide

Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector