Trouver vs. retrouver
The French words 'trouver' and 'retrouver' both relate to the concept of finding something, but they are used in different contexts. While both verbs can be translated as 'to find', 'retrouver' carries additional nuances often associated with rediscovery or reunion.
Trouver
To locate or to find something or someone for the first time or without any prior knowledge of its location.
J'ai trouvé un billet de vingt euros par terre.
(I found a twenty-euro bill on the ground.)
Il trouve toujours les meilleures restaurants en ville.
(He always finds the best restaurants in town.)
Elle a trouvé la solution au problème.
(She found the solution to the problem.)
Retrouver
To find again, to rediscover something or someone that was lost or missing, or to meet up with someone.
Après des heures de recherche, il a retrouvé ses clés.
(After hours of searching, he found his keys again.)
Nous nous retrouverons à l'entrée du cinéma.
(We will meet up at the entrance of the cinema.)
Elle était contente de retrouver son amie d'enfance.
(She was happy to see her childhood friend again.)
Summary
'Trouver' typically refers to finding something for the first time, while 'retrouver' implies finding something or someone again after it has been lost or separated from, or meeting up with someone. The context in which they are used is pivotal to understanding their specific connotation.