it seems clear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it seems clear" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a conclusion or opinion that something is evident or obvious based on the information available. Example: "After reviewing the data, it seems clear that our sales have increased significantly this quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It seems clear that the country has lost its way.

The New York Times

It seems clear Conard wouldn't.

The New York Times

It seems clear that U-Md.

The Washington Post

It seems clear what is going on.

The New York Times

It seems clear that the balance shifted firmly with 1962.

Princeton University

It seems clear what Congress intended by section 315.

Cornell University

It seems clear that non-invasive technologies will eventually prevail.

Harvard University

It seems clear that transit strikes have negative environmental impacts.

University of California, Berkeley

But it seems clear, too, that Mr Yeltsin over-reacted.

The Economist

But it seems clear that much will be dodged.

The Economist

It seems clear that Abe has a capital gain.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it seems clear" to introduce a conclusion that is well-supported by preceding information, but avoid overuse to maintain a confident and assertive tone.

Common error

Avoid using "it seems clear" when the statement is self-evident or already universally accepted. Doing so can make your writing seem condescending or redundant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it seems clear" functions as an epistemic phrase, indicating the speaker's assessment of the certainty of a statement. Based on Ludwig AI, it is a common way to introduce a conclusion that appears evident based on the available information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it seems clear" is a versatile phrase used to present a conclusion or inference with a degree of confidence. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various domains, including news, academic writing, and scientific publications. While "it seems clear" is generally acceptable, writers should be mindful of the context and audience, opting for more assertive alternatives in situations requiring greater emphasis on objectivity. By avoiding overuse and considering the subtle nuances, one can effectively employ "it seems clear" to guide readers toward a well-supported understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is apparent

This phrase replaces "seems" with "is", indicating a more direct assertion of something being evident.

it is evident

Similar to "it is apparent", this alternative emphasizes the obvious nature of something.

it is obvious

This phrase directly states that something is easily perceived or understood.

it is plain

This option suggests something is easily noticeable or understandable, focusing on simplicity.

it is manifest

This implies that something is unmistakably obvious or easily perceived.

it is understood

This suggests a tacit agreement or assumption that something is clear without needing explicit statement.

it is inferable

This option shifts the focus to the ability to deduce something logically from the available information.

it can be deduced

Similar to "it is inferable", but emphasizes the process of reaching a conclusion.

the evidence suggests

This alternative frames the clarity as a result of presented evidence, rather than an inherent obviousness.

one can conclude

This phrase frames the clarity as leading to a specific conclusion that can be made.

FAQs

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

You can use "it seems clear" to introduce a statement that is logically derived from the information presented, suggesting a conclusion that is reasonably evident. For example, "After reviewing the data, "it seems clear" that sales have increased."

What are some alternatives to "it seems clear"?

Alternatives include "it is apparent", "it is evident", or "it is obvious". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey regarding the level of certainty and directness.

Is "it seems clear" too informal for academic writing?

While generally acceptable, "it seems clear" can sometimes be perceived as slightly informal in highly rigorous academic contexts. Consider using more assertive alternatives like "it is evident" or "the evidence suggests" for a stronger, more authoritative tone.

What's the difference between "it seems clear" and "it is clear"?

"It seems clear" implies a conclusion based on observation or inference, suggesting a degree of subjectivity. "It is clear", on the other hand, presents the statement as an objective truth, implying a higher level of certainty and less room for doubt.