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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

MitStanfordHarvardAustralian Nationa UniversityNanyangOxford

doesn't seem like it

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This doesn't seem like it warrants its own case.

LIZZA: Well, it doesn't seem like it to me.

News & Media

The New Yorker

"It doesn't seem like it won't happen," Carmody said.

News & Media

The New York Times

"It doesn't seem like it was too serious," Anthony said.

News & Media

The New York Times

"That's racing, I guess, but it doesn't seem like it.

"It doesn't seem like it is going to change soon," Ms. Maiolo said.

News & Media

The New York Times

It's got to be played in a way that doesn't seem like it".

News & Media

The New York Times

It doesn't seem like it should be that hard for algorithms to figure out what someone is saying.

News & Media

The New Yorker

And though it doesn't seem like it, the world's most powerful person is oddly limited in his holiday options.

News & Media

Independent

It may be that there is a big appraisal case looming, but it doesn't seem like it would be Dell's.

News & Media

The New York Times

But either way, a trillion-dollar coin doesn't seem like it would have added much to the indignity.

News & Media

The Economist
Show more...

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "doesn't seem like it", ensure the context clearly indicates what "it" refers to, avoiding ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "doesn't seem like it" when the subject or situation being referenced is unclear or not explicitly stated in the immediate context. Always ensure clarity to prevent misinterpretation.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

88%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "doesn't seem like it" functions as an expression of doubt or disbelief. It indicates a lack of expectation or confidence in a particular outcome or situation. As shown by Ludwig, it often follows a statement or observation, providing a contrasting opinion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "doesn't seem like it" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to convey doubt, disbelief, or skepticism. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, as evidenced by Ludwig, the phrase maintains a neutral register suitable for both casual and professional communication. The most effective way to employ this expression is to make sure that "it" has a clear and known referent. Alternatives such as "doesn't look like it", "it's unlikely", and "it's doubtful" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. With Ludwig displaying a high volume of real-world examples, the phrase's prevalence and utility are clearly demonstrated.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "doesn't seem like it" to sound more formal?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases such as "it is improbable", "it is unlikely", or "it is doubtful" as alternatives to "doesn't seem like it".

What does "doesn't seem like it" imply?

The phrase "doesn't seem like it" generally implies doubt, disbelief, or a lack of expectation regarding a particular outcome or situation.

Is "doesn't seem like it" grammatically correct?

Yes, "doesn't seem like it" is grammatically correct and commonly used in spoken and written English. It's a standard way to express doubt or disbelief.

When is it appropriate to use "doesn't seem like it"?

It is appropriate to use "doesn't seem like it" in situations where you want to express a sense of doubt, disbelief, or skepticism about something. For example, “It "doesn't look like it"'s going to rain today”, or “That "doesn't sound like it" would work”.

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Source & Trust

88%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: