feels as though

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "feels as though" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe a particular feeling or emotion. For example, "He felt as though he had made the wrong decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In fact, it feels as though slavery as an analogy has become subversively chic.

The New York Times

It feels as though they've got somewhere.

The New Yorker

It feels as though I'm always carsick.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

She feels as though they have been  sacrificed".

Independent

It feels as though these things happened just yesterday.

The New Yorker

One feels as though they have been let down.

The New York Times

It feels as though we're at a crossroads.

The Guardian

It feels as though we're finally becoming part-machine.

Independent

She feels as though she's never fully relaxed.

The New York Times - Travel

It feels as though it is all going on elsewhere.

The Guardian - Opinion

It feels as though an important threshold has been crossed.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "feels as though" to express subjective impressions or emotional states that are not necessarily based on concrete evidence. It is effective in conveying a sense of personal experience or interpretation.

Common error

While acceptable in many situations, overuse of "feels as though" in highly formal or scientific writing can weaken the impact. Consider more direct and objective language where appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "feels as though" functions as a subjective connector, linking a subject's internal feeling or perception to an external situation or state. It's used to describe how something appears or is experienced, rather than stating a definitive fact. Ludwig confirms that it's correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

25%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "feels as though" is a versatile phrase used to convey subjective impressions and perceptions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely used, particularly in journalistic and academic writing. The phrase functions as a subjective connector, allowing writers to express personal experiences and interpretations, although overuse in highly formal contexts should be avoided. Alternatives such as "seems like" or "gives the impression that" can provide subtle variations in meaning. When deciding on its usage, remember that this phrase is best suited for expressing a sense of how something appears or is experienced, rather than stating definitive facts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as if

Shorter and more direct way to indicate a resemblance or perceived reality.

seems like

A more informal and general way to express a similar feeling or impression.

has the feeling of

Highlights the emotional or sensory experience associated with something.

gives the impression that

Emphasizes the perceived appearance or effect rather than a direct sensation.

one gets the sense that

Emphasizes a subjective understanding or intuition about something.

appears to be

Focuses on outward appearance and observation, rather than internal sensation.

it would seem that

Suggests a conclusion based on available evidence or observation.

it's like

A colloquial way to draw a comparison and express a similar feeling.

it strikes one as

Highlights a particular quality or characteristic that stands out.

one would think that

Expresses an assumption or expectation based on a given situation.

FAQs

How can I use "feels as though" in a sentence?

You can use "feels as though" to express a subjective impression or sensation. For example, "It "feels as though" spring is finally here" or "He "feels as though" he's made the right decision."

What can I say instead of "feels as though"?

Alternatives include "seems like", "gives the impression that", or "as if", depending on the context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "feels as though" or "feels like"?

"Feels as though" and "feels like" are often interchangeable, but "feels as though" can sound slightly more formal or literary. The choice depends on the tone and style of your writing.

When is it inappropriate to use "feels as though"?

Avoid using "feels as though" in contexts that require strict objectivity, such as scientific reports or legal documents, where precise and factual language is paramount. In those cases, opt for language that is more direct and less subjective.