as may appear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as may appear" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something may be perceived or interpreted in a certain way, often implying that the appearance may not reflect the reality. Example: "The situation, as may appear, is more complex than it seems at first glance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

The white king position is not as secure as may appear.

The New York Times

(f) to undertake such other matters as may appear necessary to them for the purposes of the preparation for and conduct of the Trial.

Yale University

to undertake such other matters as may appear necessary to them for the purposes of the preparation for and conduct of the Trial.

Yale University

"The constant proofs which I have received of your attachment to my person and family persuade me that you will enable me to provide for such an establishment as may appear suitable to the rank of the prince and the dignity of the crown," she said.

The Guardian

In such an instance, the students can be confident that these cells are growing in a pulsatile manner, though perhaps not as extremely as may appear.

CBE Life Sciences Education

In 1802, the Medical Board wrote to the Court of Directors that the "black doctors" attached to the Native Battalions should be dismissed "and such of them as may appear to be qualifed, be employed as Compounders and Dressers".

Bulletin of the History of Medicine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

But Maduro's decision is not as simple, or as crazy, as it may appear to some.

Los Angeles Times

The notion isn't as farfetched as it may appear.

The New York Times

But these projects, as helpful as they may appear, are Trojan horses.

The Guardian - Opinion

As ingenuous as he may appear, his interpretations are tasteful and intelligently conceived.

The New York Times - Arts

De Montebello's Metropolitan, however, is not as collegial as it may appear.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as may appear" to introduce a contrasting reality or deeper understanding beyond initial impressions. This adds depth and complexity to your writing.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on what "as may appear" suggests. Always investigate underlying facts or alternative perspectives to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as may appear" functions as an introductory phrase or clause modifier. Ludwig provides examples where it introduces a contrasting view or deeper meaning, signaling that the initial perception might be misleading.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Academia

33%

Science

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as may appear" serves as a qualifier, suggesting a possible divergence between initial perception and reality. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usage across various domains, including News & Media, Academia, and Science. While not exceedingly common, the phrase is valuable for adding depth and prompting further consideration. Remember to consider alternative perspectives and avoid relying solely on surface-level interpretations when using or encountering this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as it seems

This alternative focuses on the current impression or observation.

as it would seem

This alternative adds a layer of speculation or conjecture.

as it appears to be

This alternative emphasizes the visible or evident qualities.

as it presents itself

This alternative highlights the manner in which something is shown or displayed.

on the face of it

This alternative is an idiomatic expression indicating a superficial assessment.

superficially

This single word alternative focuses on the external or surface level.

ostensibly

This alternative suggests a stated or apparent reason or motive.

seemingly

This alternative directly conveys the impression given, possibly misleadingly.

to all appearances

This alternative indicates judgment based on what is observed.

by all indications

This alternative suggests deriving a conclusion from multiple signs or signals.

FAQs

How can I use "as may appear" in a sentence?

Use "as may appear" to introduce a situation or detail that seems one way initially, but may have a different reality underneath. For example, "The task, "as may appear" simple, requires considerable expertise."

What can I say instead of "as may appear"?

You can use alternatives like "as it seems", "seemingly", or "on the face of it" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "as it may appear" instead of "as may appear"?

Yes, "as it may appear" is a grammatically correct and frequently used alternative to "as may appear". Both phrases convey the same meaning.

What is the difference between "as may appear" and "as it seems"?

While similar, "as may appear" often implies a slightly stronger contrast between appearance and reality, whereas "as it seems" can be more neutral, simply describing a current impression.