1.
search; manhunt; investigation
An organized effort to find a missing person, fugitive, or object. Often used in official or law enforcement contexts.
捜索活動が始まった。
The search operation began.
警察が家宅捜索を行った。
The police conducted a house search.
行方不明者の捜索は三日間続けられた。
The search for the missing person continued for three days.
捜索 refers to an organized, systematic search — typically by authorities or groups. Used in law enforcement (searching for suspects, evidence) and disaster/rescue contexts (searching for missing persons).
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 捜索活動: search operation
- 家宅捜索: house search/raid
- 捜索願: missing person report
- 捜索令状: search warrant
- 捜索隊: search party
- 捜索範囲: search area
USAGE:
Used as a する verb: 捜索する. More formal and official than 探す (to look for), which is the everyday word.
HOMOPHONE:
Not to be confused with 創作 (creative work) — same reading, completely different meaning and kanji.