Word
seem
US/ˈsim/
UK/sˈiːm/
Definition
v. to give the impression of being something or having a certain quality.
v. to give the impression of being or doing something; functions as a linking verb followed by an adjective, noun, or infinitive.
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.”
Examples
simple
“You seem happy today.”
contextual
“The new software might seem complicated at first, but it becomes much easier to use after a few hours of practice.”
complex
“While the initial results seem promising, the research team remains cautious until they can replicate the findings under more controlled laboratory conditions.”
Usage
Commonly used in the pattern 'it seems that...' or followed directly by an adjective or 'to be'.
Pitfall
It seems me that he is tired.
It seems to me that he is tired.
When you mention the person who has the impression, you must use the preposition 'to'.
Confusables
Look focuses on visual evidence, while seem describes an internal impression or a general state.
RememberLook is for the eyes; seem is for the mind.
Synonyms
Collocations
Word family
Grammar
Scan code
englishreference.com/q/seem