it seems promising

USAGE SUMMARY

"it seems promising" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to express hope or optimism about something. Example: After months of hard work, the new product launch seems promising and the CEO is confident it will be a success.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

Once you get through the jargon, it seems promising.

The Guardian - Opinion

It seems promising that analyzing paper content helps to validate the universality of those paradigms and methodologies.

EPJ Data Science

It seems promising that composite materials with high damping characteristics could replace wooden structures used in musical instruments.

Applied Acoustics

Owing to interactions between one variable and another it seems promising to use a two input-two output control scheme.

Chemical Engineering Science

Second, it seems promising to use task allocation mechanisms to direct experts to primarily answer difficult questions when they contribute to the system.

Journal of the Brazilian Computer Society

It is the first time that such a material stack has been fabricated, and it seems promising for the high-temperature use of SiC with tungsten alloys.

Surface and Coatings Technology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

It seemed promising at first, but it flopped.

The New Yorker

In animal studies and early clinical trials for autoimmune disorders, it seemed promising.

The New Yorker

Nor does it seem promising to build up so-called "moderate rebel groups," insurgents fighting Mr Assad's forces on one side and ISIS on the other.

The Economist

"Polyphonia" is a piano ballet, and the pianist, Alan Moverman, went on playing, thereby, it seemed, promising the audience that everything was going to be O.K.

The New Yorker

BEIRUT, Lebanon — It seemed promising until the shelling started: under a brief cease-fire, 200 civilians were preparing to evacuate on Wednesday from a rebel-held town near Damascus that the government has blockaded for months.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it seems promising", ensure that the context clearly identifies what 'it' refers to, providing clarity and avoiding ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "it seems promising" excessively in formal reports or academic papers. Instead, opt for more precise language that quantifies the potential or specifies the expected outcomes, ensuring a more objective and credible tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it seems promising" functions as an assessment or evaluation, expressing a subjective opinion about the potential or likelihood of success for something. As Ludwig AI states, it indicates hope or optimism.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

46%

News & Media

42%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it seems promising" is a commonly used phrase to express optimism or potential, primarily found in scientific and news contexts. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and functions as an assessment, encouraging further exploration or investment. While generally neutral in register, it's advisable to avoid overuse in highly formal or technical writing, opting instead for more specific and quantifiable language. The related phrases offer various shades of meaning, allowing for nuanced expression of optimism in different situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it shows potential

Emphasizes the inherent capacity for future success or development, differing in its focus on innate qualities rather than outward appearances.

it holds promise

Highlights the existence of encouraging signs or factors, offering a slightly more formal tone.

it looks hopeful

Focuses on the visual aspect of optimism, suggesting that the situation appears favorable at first glance.

it inspires optimism

Shifts the focus to the feeling evoked by the situation, rather than an assessment of its likelihood of success.

it gives reason for hope

Provides a more explicit and reasoned basis for optimism, suitable in situations where justification is needed.

it has a good prognosis

Offers a more technical or clinical perspective, particularly suitable in medical or project management contexts.

it bodes well

Uses a more traditional or literary expression to suggest favorable future outcomes, differing in register and style.

the outlook is bright

Shifts the focus to the overall future prospects, offering a broader perspective on the situation.

it's shaping up nicely

Suggests that the development of something is progressing well, implying a sense of active progress.

it's on the right track

Indicates progress in a positive direction, with a focus on the correctness of the current path.

FAQs

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

You can use "it seems promising" to express optimism or potential about a situation, idea, or project. For example, "The initial results from the clinical trial "it seems promising" for future treatments".

What are some alternatives to "it seems promising"?

Alternatives include "it shows potential", "it holds promise", or "it looks hopeful", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "it seems promising" formal or informal?

"It seems promising" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal settings may benefit from more precise or technical alternatives.

Which is more appropriate: "it seems promising" or "it seemed promising"?

Use "it seems promising" for current situations or ongoing developments that show potential. Use "it seemed promising" when referring to a past situation that initially showed potential but may not have ultimately succeeded.