# seem

/ˈsim/ (US) · /sˈiːm/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/seem
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. to appear to be

verb · CEFR A2

to give the impression of being something or having a certain quality.

For teachers: to give the impression of being or doing something; functions as a linking verb followed by an adjective, noun, or infinitive.

- The new neighbors seem very friendly and quiet.
- Although the initial results seem promising, the research team remains cautious until the final data set is fully analyzed.

Usage: Commonly used in the pattern 'it seems that...' or followed directly by an adjective or 'to be'.

## Examples

- You seem happy today.
- The new software might seem complicated at first, but it becomes much easier to use after a few hours of practice.
- While the initial results seem promising, the research team remains cautious until they can replicate the findings under more controlled laboratory conditions.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.