The simple past tense of seek is sought, and the past participle is also sought. Use sought for both simple past and past participle forms.

Definition of seek

The Oxford Learner’s Dictionary defines seek as “to ask somebody for something; to try to obtain or achieve something”.

Verb forms of 'seek'

While “seeked” is technically incorrect, most people will likely understand what’s being said. The correct past tense (and past participle) is sought, which rhymes with brought, the past tense of bring. But the present tense of sought does not rhyme with bring, as does sing or ring.

When to use sought vs. sought

Use sought for the simple past tense and sought as the past participle with auxiliary verbs like "have," "has," or "had".

Similar irregular verbs

Sentence examples: seek, sought, sought

Seek (present tense)

Examples:

• We seek a place to rest.

• She tried to seek a solution for the problem.

• She fled the country and now seeks asylum in Sweden.

Sought (past simple)

Examples:

• He searched long and hard, and eventually he found what he had sought.

• They sought in vain for somewhere to shelter.

• They sought refuge in the mountain villages.

Sought (past participle)

Examples:

• They'd sought alternatives before going with the more drastic decision.

• He had sought help from his mentor.

Synonyms for "seek"

Idioms with "seek"

to seek a knot in a bulrush

To attempt a futile task.

to play hide-and-seek

To be hiding.

seek pastures new

To look for new and better opportunities/circumstances.

seek revenge

To exact revenge.

Origin of the verb seek

Practice: Seek or sought?

FAQs

Is "seeked" correct?

No, "seeked" is not correct. The past tense of "seek" is "sought," not "seeked."

What type of verb is "seek"?

"Seek" is an irregular verb, which means it doesn't follow the standard -ed pattern for past tense formation.

How do you use "sought" in a sentence?

Use "sought" for both simple past and past participle: "She sought help" (simple past) or "They have sought advice" (past participle).

What's the difference between "seek" and "search"?

"Seek" often implies looking for something abstract or intangible (like advice or truth), while "search" typically refers to looking for something concrete or physical.