Chercher

The Subjunctivisor!

Does chercher require the subjunctive?

Chercher … que/qui may require the subjunctive, depending on whether the subject knows this person or thing exists.

En comparaison…

Nous cherchons quelqu’un qui puisse travailler à plein temps.
We are looking for someone who can work full-time.
vs
Nous cherchons la dame qui peut travailler à plein temps.
We’re looking for the woman who can work full-time.
(She sent us a résumé, so we know she exists; we’re just having trouble finding her.)

Cherchez-vous un livre qui soit plus récent ?
Are you searching for a book that is more recent?
vs
Je cherche le livre que tu as recommandé.
I’m looking for the book you recommended.