Chercher/ Rechercher

Question

Hello!! I would really like to know the difference between chercher and rechercher.Thank you so much

Accepted 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!

Answer

Hi Ale,The difference is quite subtle:-Chercher  --> to look/search for or try to find. Also to court --> danger / difficultyRechercher  --> to try to find / discover / find out --  (think of research scientists)Also to search again or seek.Hope this helps.Jim

Answer

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.