appear to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "appear to" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate a perception or impression of something that may not necessarily be true. Example: "They appear to be happy, but I know they are going through a tough time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Republicans appear to agree.

The New York Times

Some appear to.

The Economist

They appear to be healthy.

The New York Times

It'd appear to be locked".

The New Yorker

They appear to have succeeded.

The New York Times

Other investors appear to disagree.

The New York Times

They appear to have failed.

The New York Times - Science

He doesn't appear to notice.

The New York Times

Humans appear to be responsible.

The New Yorker

Matters appear to have calmed.

The New York Times

Snell didn't appear to mind.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "appear to" when you want to express an impression or observation without stating it as a definite fact. It adds a layer of nuance, acknowledging that the situation might be different from how it seems.

Common error

Avoid using "appear to" excessively in your writing, as it can make you sound uncertain or lacking confidence. Vary your language by incorporating more direct statements or stronger verbs when the context allows.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "appear to" functions as a linking verb, connecting the subject of a sentence to a descriptive word or phrase. Ludwig AI confirms that it's used to express a perception or impression that may not necessarily be a confirmed fact. For example, "They appear to be happy" links "they" with the state of seeming happy.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "appear to" is a versatile and common linking verb phrase used to express impressions or observations without stating them as definite facts. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and usability across various contexts. Its neutral register and widespread use in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources make it a reliable choice for expressing uncertainty or tentativeness. While generally acceptable, overusing "appear to" can make writing sound indecisive. Related phrases like "seem to" and "look like" can provide stylistic variation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seem to

A more direct synonym, suggesting a similar level of uncertainty or impression.

look like

Focuses more on visual impression, but carries a similar meaning of apparent state.

suggest that

Implies a slightly stronger degree of evidence or indication.

indicate that

More formal and suggests a clearer sign or signal.

give the impression of

Emphasizes the subjective nature of the perception.

create the impression of

Highlights the active role in forming an impression.

have the semblance of

More formal and implies a superficial similarity.

purport to

Implies a claim or pretense that may not be genuine.

profess to

Suggests an open declaration or claim, often with a hint of doubt.

ostensibly

Adverb indicating something is presented as true, but potentially not so.

FAQs

How to use "appear to" in a sentence?

Use "appear to" when you want to convey that something seems to be a certain way based on available information, but you're not entirely sure. For example: "They "seem to" be enjoying the party" or "The data "suggests that" sales are increasing".

What can I say instead of "appear to"?

You can use alternatives like "seem to", "look like", "suggest that", or "indicate that" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "appear to be" or "appears to be"?

"Appear to be" is used with plural subjects (e.g., "They appear to be tired"), while "appears to be" is used with singular subjects (e.g., "He appears to be lost").

What's the difference between "appear to be" and "is"?

"Appear to be" suggests a perception or possibility that might not be definitively true. "Is" states a fact. For instance, "He appears to be sick" implies you suspect he's ill, whereas "He is sick" confirms it.