Translation and Meaning of: 捜す - sagasu

If you are learning Japanese, you may have come across the verb 捜す [さがす], which means "to search" or "to look for." This word is essential in everyday vocabulary, appearing in daily situations, from looking for lost items to more serious investigations. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, usage in sentences, and even tips for memorizing it effectively.

In addition to being a practical term, 捜す carries interesting nuances in the Japanese language, especially when compared to other similar verbs. If you want to avoid confusion and understand how to use it correctly in different contexts, keep reading. Here at Suki Nihongo, our goal is to provide clear and precise explanations for those who wish to truly master Japanese.

Meaning and usage of 捜す [さがす]

The verb 捜す is used when searching for something or someone that is lost, missing, or hidden. Unlike 探す (which also means "to search"), 捜す has a more investigative tone, often employed in contexts such as police searches or situations that require more meticulous effort. For example, if you lost your keys, you can say "鍵を捜す" (kagi o sagasu).

Another important detail is that 捜す appears more frequently in formal records or in situations involving authority, such as news or official documents. If you watch a Japanese police drama, you will likely hear this word being used by detectives or reporters. This subtle distinction makes all the difference when it comes to choosing the right verb for each situation.

Origin and writing of the kanji 捜

The kanji 捜 is composed of the radical 手 (hand) and the component 叟, which suggests the idea of "searching" or "investigating." This combination reinforces the sense of an active pursuit, often involving physical action. Interestingly, this same kanji can also be read as "sō" in words such as 捜査 (sōsa), which means "police investigation."

It is worth noting that 捜す is not an extremely common verb in daily life, but its presence in specific contexts makes it indispensable for those who want to understand Japanese in depth. If you are studying for the JLPT, for example, you are likely to encounter this word in more formal or news-related texts.

Tips for memorizing 捜す

An effective way to remember 捜す is to associate it with intense search situations, like an investigation or looking for something important. Creating flashcards with sentences like "警察が犯人を捜す" (The police are looking for the criminal) can help you memorize not just the meaning, but also the appropriate context. Another tip is to compare it with 探す, noting examples that highlight the differences between the two.

Some students also find it helpful to remember that the kanji 捜 has the hand radical (手), which can serve as a visual clue for its meaning. If you enjoy animes or dramas, pay attention when this word appears – listening to it in real context makes it easier to assimilate it naturally.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 探す (sagasu) - Search (usually actively)
• 捜し出す (sashidasu) - Finding after searching hard
• 捜索する (sousaku suru) - Conduct a search, investigation
• 見つける (mitsukeru) - Find, discover (the act of finding something)
• 探り出す (saguridasu) - Discover, investigate (implying a careful process)
• 捜し求める (sashi motomeru) - To search intensely or anxiously for something.
• 追求する (tsuikyuu suru) - Pursuing or seeking a goal, objective, or truth
• 探究する (tankyuu suru) - Explore or investigate in depth, usually a subject or theme.
• 追跡する (tsuiseki suru) - Tracking or following something or someone
• 追いかける (oi kakeru) - Physically chasing someone or something.
• 追い求める (oi motomeru) - Chasing after something, often in an emotional or aspirational context.
• 追い返す (oi kaesu) - Expel or make someone return, usually in a chase situation.
• 追いつく (oi tsuku) - Reaching something or someone who was ahead.
• 追い込む (oi komu) - Cornering, pushing into an extreme or disadvantageous position
• 追い詰める (oi tsumeru) - To pressure someone to a critical point or limit

捜す

Romaji: sagasu
Kana: さがす
Type: Noun
L: jlpt-n4, jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: to search for; search; try to find

Meaning in English: to search;to seek;to look for

Definition: Search. discover things.

Example Sentences - (捜す) sagasu

See below some example sentences:

彼女を捜す。

Kanojo wo sagasu

I'm looking for her.

Look for her.

• 彼女 (kanojo) - means "girlfriend" or "her"
• を (wo) - direct object particle
• 捜す (sagasu) - means "search"