Chercher/ Rechercher

Ale R.A1Kwiziq community member

Chercher/ Rechercher

Hello!! I would really like to know the difference between chercher and rechercher.

Thank you so much

This question relates to:French lesson "to search"
Asked 2 years ago
CécileNative French expert teacher in KwiziqCorrect answer

Hi Ale,

To simplify things :

chercher = to look for 

rechercher = to seek 

But there will be other English meanings depending on the context.

Je cherche mon stylo = I am looking for my pen  

Ils cherchent un appartement à Londres = They are looking for a flat in London 

Je recherche le calme et la tranquilité de la campagne = I am seeking for the calm and quiet of the countryside

Homme recherche femme gentille et tolérante = man seeking for a kind and tolerant woman 

The last example would feature in a lonely heart column, sorry if not PC  but a great example of 'rechercher'  in my opinion!

Hope these help!

Jim J.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor

Hi Ale,

The difference is quite subtle:-

Chercher  --> to look/search for or try to find. Also to court --> danger / difficulty

Rechercher  --> to try to find / discover / find out --  (think of research scientists)

Also to search again or seek.

Hope this helps.

Jim 

Chris W.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor

And if you look these words up in one of the many free online dictionaries you will find even much more comprehensive answers with example sentences.

Chercher/ Rechercher

Hello!! I would really like to know the difference between chercher and rechercher.

Thank you so much

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