07 – Find vs. Find out – Happy English Podcast

Welcome to the 7th episode of the Happy English Podcast by NJCLT! In this episode, we will delve into the commonly confusing usage of 'find' and 'find out.' These two expressions might seem similar, but they have distinct meanings and usage. By understanding the difference between 'find' and 'find out,' you can significantly enhance your English language skills.

The Meaning of 'Find'

Let's start by exploring the definition of 'find.' In simple terms, 'find' means to locate or discover something or someone. It often involves coming across or identifying something that was previously unknown, lost, or misplaced.

For example:

• I find it difficult to concentrate in noisy environments.
• We found a great restaurant while exploring the city.
• She was relieved to find her lost keys in her bag.

Understanding 'Find Out'

'Find out' is a phrasal verb that conveys the act of acquiring knowledge or gathering information about something previously unknown.

Here are some examples:

• He wants to find out the truth about the incident.
• Let's find out if the train is running on time.
• We need to find out the cost of living in this area before making a decision.

The Key Differences

The main difference between 'find' and 'find out' lies in the depth of information or knowledge acquired. While 'find' simply refers to discovering or locating something, 'find out' implies actively seeking and gaining knowledge or details about a subject.

It's important to note that 'find out' is often followed by a question word or that-clause to express the specific information being sought. This further differentiates it from 'find.'

Best Usage Practices

To use 'find' and 'find out' effectively, consider the following guidelines:

1. Use 'find' when you are referring to the act of discovering or locating something physically present.
2. Choose 'find out' when you want to emphasize the action of acquiring knowledge, information, or facts about a particular subject.
3. Remember to incorporate question words or that-clauses after 'find out' to specify the sought-out information.

Practical Examples for Clarity

Let's go through a few practical examples to solidify your understanding.

Example 1:

Incorrect: I found out a beautiful seashell on the beach.

Correct: I found a beautiful seashell on the beach.

Example 2:

Incorrect: Let's find who won the competition.

Correct: Let's find out who won the competition.

Example 3:

Incorrect: She found out a solution to the problem.

Correct: She found a solution to the problem.

Get Confident with 'Find' and 'Find Out'

By grasping the distinction between 'find' and 'find out,' you can confidently use these expressions to communicate effectively. Practice incorporating both into your English language usage to improve your fluency and precision.

Thank you for joining us for this episode of the Happy English Podcast by NJCLT. We hope you found this lesson helpful and informative.

Happy Learning!