die Suche
search
The action or process of trying to find someone or something that is lost or hidden.
EXAMPLE
Die Suche nach dem vermissten Schlüssel dauerte eine Stunde.
The search for the missing key took an hour.
die Suche
search
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Meanings
auf der Suche sein
to be looking
To actively look for something specific, often over a longer period of time. This can refer to concrete things like an apartment or a job, but also to abstract goals like happiness.
EXAMPLE
Er ist schon seit Monaten auf der Suche nach einer neuen Arbeitsstelle.
He has been looking for a new job for months.
Usage tips
Word family
'Die Suche' (the search) is the noun corresponding to the verb 'suchen' (to search/look for). This connection is very direct and helps you learn and understand both words together.
EXAMPLE
Ich suche meinen Schlüssel. Die Suche ist bisher erfolglos.
I am looking for my key. The search has been unsuccessful so far.
Correct preposition
When you say what you are looking for, you always need the preposition 'nach' followed by the dative. This applies both to the verb 'suchen' and to the noun 'die Suche'.
EXAMPLE
Die Suche nach einer bezahlbaren Wohnung in der Stadt ist schwierig.
The search for an affordable apartment in the city is difficult.
Fixed expression
The phrase 'auf der Suche sein' (to be looking / to be in search of) is a fixed expression. It is often used to describe a longer-lasting state of searching, not just a brief moment.
EXAMPLE
Ich bin seit Wochen auf der Suche nach dem perfekten Geschenk.
I have been looking for the perfect gift for weeks.
Starting a search
To express that you begin searching, you use the fixed expression 'sich auf die Suche machen' (to set out in search / to start looking). This emphasizes the start of the activity.
EXAMPLE
Mein Hund ist weggelaufen, ich muss mich sofort auf die Suche machen.
My dog has run away; I have to start looking immediately.
Compare with
Suche vs Recherche
research
Die Suche and die Recherche can both refer to deliberately finding information. Suche is the general term for actively looking, while Recherche means systematically collecting and checking information on a topic. Recherche is usually more appropriate for thorough professional or journalistic work.
Suche
Bei der Suche nach Informationen las sie mehrere Artikel im Internet.
While searching for information, she read several articles online.
Recherche
Für den Zeitungsartikel machte sie eine gründliche Recherche zum Thema.
She carried out thorough research on the topic for the newspaper article.
In real life
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