initially it appears

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "initially it appears" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when introducing a first impression or observation about a situation or subject that may change upon further examination. Example: "Initially it appears that the project is on track, but further analysis reveals several delays."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Initially it appears to be straightforward escapism, rather as he proposes that they avoid thinking about the busy worms in their trench by talking about croquet instead.

The Guardian - Books

Initially, it appears to be a tale of work and of men wrenching treasure out of the earth's depths, though there's play here too, mostly in scenes from the annual celebration called the Miners' Gala.

The New York Times

If I could pass on one piece of advice to beginning scientists it would be this: Don't be afraid to take on tasks that are not part of your official job description even if, at least initially, it appears you won't get credit for the effort.

Science Magazine

Initially it appears on movement of the joint, and later at rest.

Clinical interventions in aging

Initially, it appears counter-intuitive that a cell could experience both hypoxic and oxidative stress at the same time.

British Journal of Cancer

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Initially, it appeared that Gray was destined to have a split career in academia and as a novelist.

The Guardian

Initially, it appeared highly unlikely that the interim government assembled last week would be able to resist the mounting international pressure and growing isolation to reinstate Zelaya.

The Guardian - Opinion

Initially it appeared as if "cyber-porn" would be no different from the old variety, the screen merely replacing the mag.

The Guardian - Opinion

Initially it appeared that by focusing on the exclusion of the Green party, Cameron had found the achilles heel of the broadcasters' proposal.

The Guardian

Initially, it appeared that the government was doing extensive data mining — looking at photos, videos, e-mail and postings — on all sorts of social media.

The New York Times

Media observers have long believed that Murdoch senior set the pair off on a race to determine who would succeed him, and initially it appeared that Lachlan was well ahead.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "initially it appears" to introduce a viewpoint that might evolve or be refined with more information. It signals a provisional assessment.

Common error

Avoid using "initially it appears" when you intend to convey a final or conclusive judgment. This phrase is meant for preliminary observations only.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "initially it appears" functions as an introductory phrase, signaling a preliminary assessment or observation that may be subject to change or further scrutiny. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "initially it appears" is a grammatically correct phrase used to introduce a preliminary observation or assessment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, signaling that the initial impression might change with further information. While not overly frequent, the phrase commonly occurs in news and scientific sources. When using it, remember to treat it as a provisional statement, and don't use it to convey a final judgement. Consider alternatives like "at first glance" or "on the surface" for similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at first glance it seems

This alternative uses "at first glance" to emphasize the initial impression, rather than focusing on the appearance.

it seems at first

This inverts the original order while retaining the core meaning of a preliminary assessment.

initially it seems like

This adds 'like' to explicitly state that it is a perception of likeness rather than definitive fact.

at the beginning it seems

This alternative changes 'initially' with 'at the beginning', focusing on the starting point of the observation.

it looks like at first

Using "looks like" adds an element of visual perception to the initial assessment.

at first blush it appears

Uses "at first blush," an idiom indicating an immediate impression, which may differ upon further examination.

on the face of it, it seems

This option uses an idiomatic expression, "on the face of it", to convey a surface-level assessment.

it would seem at first

This adds a conditional tone using "would seem", indicating a hypothesis or tentative conclusion.

to begin with, it appears

This variation replaces "initially" with "to begin with," highlighting the commencement of observation or analysis.

it gives the impression that at first

Expresses an impression, suggesting a subjective initial perception.

FAQs

How can I use "initially it appears" in a sentence?

"Initially it appears" introduces a first impression that could change. For example: "Initially it appears that the project is on track, but further analysis reveals several delays."

What's the difference between "initially it appears" and "initially it seemed"?

"Initially it appears" focuses on the current appearance of something, while "initially it seemed" refers to a past perception. The former suggests an ongoing observation, whereas the latter indicates a past impression.

What can I say instead of "initially it appears"?

You can use alternatives like "at first glance", "on the surface", or "at first sight" depending on the context.

Is "initially it appears" formal or informal?

"Initially it appears" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and tone than the phrase itself. You can use alternatives with a higher level of formality if required.