but it seems

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but it seems" is correct and usable in written English.
It typically functions as a conjunctive phrase indicating that a contrasting opinion or view is about to be introduced. Example: Although it is a popular opinion, but it seems that the best approach is to proceed cautiously.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But it seems its prices are not.

The Economist

But it seems unlikely.

The Economist

But it seems surrealistic.

The New Yorker

But it seems not.

The Economist

But it seems odd.

The Economist

But it seems harsh.

Independent

But it seems probable.

The New York Times - Arts

But it seems very unlikely.

The Economist

But it seems rather high.

The Economist

But it seems they can.

The New York Times

But it seems real enough.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing "but it seems", position the phrase strategically within the sentence or paragraph to emphasize the contrast effectively.

Common error

Avoid using "but it seems" repeatedly in a short span, as this can make your writing sound repetitive and indecisive. Vary your transitional phrases to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but it seems" functions as a conjunctive phrase, serving to introduce a contrasting observation, inference, or opinion. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct. It often links a prior statement with a subsequent, somewhat contradictory one, signalling a shift in perspective.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "but it seems" serves as a versatile conjunctive phrase that introduces a contrast or contradiction. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used, particularly in News & Media contexts. While it functions effectively in neutral registers, more formal writing might benefit from alternative connectors for greater precision. To enhance your writing, be mindful of overusing the phrase and ensure the contrast it introduces is both logical and clear. Remember that numerous options can replace it, for example: "however, it appears", "yet, it would appear" or "still, it looks like".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however, it appears

Replaces "seems" with "appears", suggesting a slightly more formal tone and a focus on outward appearance.

yet, it would appear

Substitutes "but" with "yet" for a stronger contrast, and uses "would appear" to add a degree of uncertainty.

in contrast, it would seem

Uses "in contrast" for a direct opposition and modifies "seems" to "would seem" for tentativeness.

still, it looks like

Replaces "seems" with "looks like", creating a more informal and observational tone.

nonetheless, it suggests

Uses "nonetheless" for a formal contrast and replaces "seems" with "suggests", implying a subtle indication rather than a clear appearance.

even so, it implies

Employs "even so" to indicate concession and substitutes "seems" with "implies", suggesting a less direct inference.

that being said, it indicates

Uses "that being said" as a transitional phrase and substitutes "seems" with "indicates" to show a demonstration.

on the other hand, it suggests

Uses "on the other hand" to provide a contrast and substitutes "seems" with "suggests" to imply a subtle indication.

conversely, it suggests

Replaces "but" with "conversely" to strengthen the contrast and replaces "seems" with "suggests".

however, one might think

Introduces a contrasting viewpoint with "however" and expresses the possibility of a different interpretation.

FAQs

How can I use "but it seems" in a sentence?

Use "but it seems" to introduce a contrasting observation or inference. For example: "The data suggests a positive trend, but it seems the market is reacting negatively."

What are some alternatives to "but it seems"?

Alternatives include "however, it appears", "yet, it would appear", or "still, it looks like", depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

Is "but it seems" appropriate for formal writing?

While acceptable, "but it seems" is generally more suited for neutral or informal contexts. In formal writing, consider alternatives like "nonetheless, it suggests" or "however, it appears".

How does "but it seems" differ from "but it is"?

"But it seems" introduces an observation or inference based on available information, while "but it is" directly states a contrasting fact. The former implies a degree of uncertainty or subjectivity.