it seems like

USAGE SUMMARY

"it seems like" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something appears to be true, especially when based on limited evidence. For example, "It seems like the weather will be nice tomorrow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It seems like ages.

The New Yorker

It seems like yesterday.

Independent

It seems like madness.

The Economist

It seems like life.

The New York Times - Arts

It seems like it.

The New Yorker

It seems like theft.

The New Yorker

It seems like animated debate".

Independent

It seems like common sense.

The New York Times

It seems like a feat.

The New Yorker

It seems like fate intervened.

The New York Times

"It seems like he's OK.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it seems like" to introduce an observation or opinion that is based on available information but not definitively proven. For example, "It seems like the project is nearing completion."

Common error

Avoid starting too many sentences with "it seems like" without providing reasoning or justification. Doing so can weaken your argument and make your writing sound speculative. Instead, provide supporting details or alternative phrasing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it seems like" functions as an introductory expression indicating an impression or tentative conclusion. It prefaces a statement that is based on observation or limited evidence. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

5%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it seems like" is a versatile phrase used to introduce observations, opinions, or tentative conclusions based on available information. According to Ludwig AI, its grammatical status is correct, and the phrase is very common across various contexts, especially in news and media. When writing, it's important to use this phrase when something appears to be true but lacks definitive proof. If you need variety, consider alternatives like it appears that or it would seem that. Avoid overusing the phrase without providing supporting evidence to keep your writing clear and compelling.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it appears that

More formal alternative indicating a similar sense of something seeming to be true based on evidence.

it would seem that

Similar meaning, suggesting a tentative conclusion based on available information.

it looks as if

Informal alternative, implying an observation-based judgment.

it suggests that

Implies that something indicates a particular conclusion.

it gives the impression that

Emphasizes the subjective feeling or sense one gets.

it indicates that

Suggests that evidence points to a specific outcome.

it has the appearance of

Focuses on the outward semblance of something.

it feels like

Emphasizes a personal, emotional sense rather than an observation.

one might think that

Expresses a possible conclusion or inference.

it could be said that

Introduces a statement that might be considered true.

FAQs

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

"It seems like" is used to express an impression or belief based on available information. For example, "It seems like the rain will continue all day".

What can I say instead of "it seems like"?

You can use alternatives like "it appears that", "it would seem that", or "it looks as if" to express a similar meaning.

Is there a difference between "it seems like" and "it seems that"?

While both phrases convey a similar meaning, "it seems that" is generally considered more formal. "It seems like" is often followed by a noun phrase, whereas "it seems that" is followed by a clause. For example, "It seems like a good idea" versus "It seems that the meeting was successful".

When is it appropriate to use "it seems like" in writing?

Use "it seems like" when you want to express an impression or a subjective assessment based on the available evidence, but without stating it as a definite fact. It is appropriate in both informal and semi-formal contexts.