it may seem logical

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it may seem logical" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a thought or idea that appears reasonable or sensible at first glance, but may require further examination. Example: "At first, it may seem logical to invest in stocks during a market boom, but it's important to consider the potential risks involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

It may seem logical to blame jet lag or cabin fever.

The New York Times

Now, with the price of grains and other commodities plunging, it may seem logical that grocery prices will follow.

The New York Times

While it may seem logical to assume that the best brandies are produced from the same grapes that make the best wines, the opposite is true.

The New York Times - Food

Much as it may seem logical that the horror of the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, is inextricably linked to the other terrorist horrors around the world, the fact is that the connections are not all clear.

The New York Times

In difficult economic times, it may seem logical to cut investments that yield results only in the long term, and thereby conserve money and resources to address short-term problems.

The Guardian - Business

Though it may seem logical for Mr. Gore to try to bathe his less well known opponent in a negative light, the strategy carries clear risks, say independent analysts and some Democrats as well.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

While that decision may seem logical, it's anything but: USCIS typically grants stay orders to classes of deportees that the leadership of the agency, following the lead of the White House, has decided are worthy of protection.

The Guardian - Opinion

Although sedating an agitated patient may seem logical, he said, it can worsen and extend the length of delirium.

The New York Times

For city dwellers, buying a house in the suburbs may seem logical square-foot-wise, but it can be a big leap.

The New York Times

This flowchart may seem logical, but according to our research, it vastly oversimplifies the issue.

TechCrunch

All this may seem logical, and energy companies would have you believe it works in the real world.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Follow the phrase with a contrasting statement or explanation to challenge the initial assumption of logic.

Common error

Avoid using "it may seem logical" as a substitute for rigorous analysis. Ensure you follow up with concrete evidence or reasoning to support or refute the apparent logic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it may seem logical" functions as a discourse marker, introducing a statement that appears reasonable or sensible on the surface. Ludwig examples show this phrase often precedes a contrasting idea, suggesting the initial logic may be flawed or incomplete. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it may seem logical" is a useful tool for introducing a perspective that appears reasonable but requires further examination. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. As the Ludwig examples show, it often serves as a setup for a contrasting argument or a more nuanced view. While common across various writing styles, from news to science, remember to avoid superficial logic and back up your claims with solid evidence. When writing, consider alternatives like "it might appear reasonable" or "on the surface, it appears logical" to subtly shift the nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it might appear reasonable

Replaces "seem" with "appear" and "logical" with "reasonable", softening the assertion of logic.

it could appear sensible

Similar to the above, but uses "sensible" to emphasize practicality.

it may sound plausible

Focuses on the initial impression of believability rather than strict logic.

it might be considered rational

Formal phrasing that highlights the aspect of being based on reason.

it may strike one as reasonable

Emphasizes the subjective perception of reasonableness.

on the surface, it appears logical

Adds a qualifier indicating that the logic might not hold up under scrutiny.

it could be seen as sensible

Shifts the focus to how something is perceived by others.

at first glance, it seems logical

Highlights that the logic is apparent upon initial observation.

intuitively, it makes sense

Indicates that something feels logical without needing detailed analysis.

one might logically assume

Implies that an assumption is being made based on logic, but may not be correct.

FAQs

How can I use "it may seem logical" in a sentence?

Use "it may seem logical" to introduce an idea that appears reasonable at first but might not be upon closer inspection. For example: "It may seem logical to cut costs during a recession, but investing in innovation can yield long-term benefits."

What are some alternatives to "it may seem logical"?

Alternatives include "it might appear reasonable", "it could appear sensible", or "on the surface, it appears logical" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "it may seem logical" or "it may be logical"?

Both are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "It may seem logical" suggests that something appears logical but might not actually be, while "it may be logical" simply states that something could be logical.

What's the difference between "it may seem logical" and "it seems logical"?

"It may seem logical" implies a degree of uncertainty or potential deception, suggesting that further examination is needed. "It seems logical" is a more straightforward statement that something appears to be logical.