appear good

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "appear good" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing something that seems satisfactory or acceptable based on observation or perception. Example: "The results of the experiment appear good, indicating that our hypothesis may be correct."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

So far the omens appear good.

The Guardian

It has bipartisan support, and its prospects appear good.

The New York Times

Neither team's guards appear good enough to dominate each other.

The New York Times - Sports

The object is to appear good and buy political support.

The Washington Post

"The prospects for sanity and justice do not appear good, but I refuse to give up".

The New York Times

Prospects for Notre Dame remaining a postseason at traction appear good.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

The video is the most fun you'll have watching an ageing CEO strain to appear good-natured all day, assuming that the remainder of your day doesn't somehow involve finding yourself in Elon Musk's office as he realizes that someone has moved the blotter on his desk a quarter-inch to the left.

The Guardian - Tech

Discipline appears good.

Independent

Conditions in the temporary prison appeared good.

The Guardian

Her health appeared good, except that she was much emaciated.

Yale University

On a superficial reading, the amendment appears good news for India's child laborers.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "appear good" to describe a situation, consider clarifying what specific aspects make it seem positive to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying "The prospects appear good", specify "The prospects for funding appear good, given the preliminary data."

Common error

While "appear good" is acceptable, overuse in formal contexts can make your writing sound less sophisticated. Consider substituting with stronger verbs like "indicate", "suggest", or "demonstrate" to enhance clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "appear good" functions as a copular verb phrase, linking a subject to a subjective complement that describes its state or quality. It indicates a perceived positive attribute or condition. As Ludwig AI points out, this phrase is found in various contexts, confirming its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Science

35%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "appear good" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that indicates a positive initial assessment. According to Ludwig AI, it is found in various contexts, mostly in "News & Media" and "Science". While versatile, more formal contexts may benefit from stronger alternatives like "demonstrate positive results". When using "appear good", consider clarifying what aspects make it seem positive and avoiding overuse in favor of more descriptive verbs. Though the Ludwig AI analysis and usage examples confirm the phrase's validity, thoughtful application enhances clarity and sophistication in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seem promising

Focuses on the potential for a positive outcome in the future. Emphasis is on expectation.

look favorable

Suggests a positive outlook or set of circumstances. Implies conditions are advantageous.

show promise

Highlights the potential or indication of future success. Emphasizes initial positive signs.

bode well

Indicates a positive omen or sign for the future. More formal and often refers to future events.

look good

More general and can refer to aesthetic appeal as well as overall suitability. A more versatile option.

seem satisfactory

Suggests that something meets the required standards or expectations. Focuses on adequacy.

appear promising

Similar to "seem promising" but emphasizes visual assessment. Relies more on observable factors.

sound promising

Emphasizes the auditory aspect of the assessment, suggesting that something gives a positive impression when heard about.

look auspicious

Suggests that something indicates a good future, but can also mean fortunate or advantageous. Can sound old fashioned.

portend well

Similar to "bode well" but can also mean to foreshadow. Can sound a bit too literary.

FAQs

How can I use "appear good" in a sentence?

You can use "appear good" to describe situations where things seem promising or satisfactory based on initial observations. For example: "The initial test results "appear good", suggesting further investigation is warranted."

What can I say instead of "appear good"?

You can use alternatives like "seem promising", "look favorable", or "show promise" depending on the context.

Which is correct: "appear good" or "appears good"?

"Appear good" is used with plural subjects or when the subject is "I", "we", "you", or "they". "Appears good" is used with singular subjects (he, she, it). For example: "The data appear good", and "The strategy appears good".

Is "appear good" formal or informal?

"Appear good" is generally suitable for most contexts. However, in highly formal writing, consider using alternatives like "demonstrate positive results" or "indicate success" for added precision and professionalism.