make it appear

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make it appear" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express the idea of causing something to seem as if it exists or is true. For example, "We need to make it appear that we have enough money to buy a new car."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The terror-gap measure is more modest and balanced than its opponents make it appear.

The New York Times

Its specializations for strong chewing certainly make it appear bizarre.

Encyclopedia Britannica

6. Make it appear effortless.

The New York Times - Magazine

A surround can make it appear both wider and higher.

The New York Times

We should not make it appear as if we do.

The New York Times

If additional light is needed, please try to make it appear as natural as possible.

University of California, Berkeley

Prof. Reich, your posts make it appear that you have solutions to America's financial problems.

University of California, Berkeley

In addition, the robot can change a sequence but still make it appear predictable.

The New Yorker

So when you are away, make it appear as if you are not.

Independent

But the latest sales numbers do not make it appear that Apple needs to sell one.

The New York Times

This might make it appear that they want to be caught.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make it appear" when you want to suggest a deliberate effort to create a specific impression, even if that impression is not entirely accurate.

Common error

While "make it appear" is versatile, overuse in formal writing can make your prose sound less sophisticated. Consider stronger verbs like 'simulate' or 'demonstrate' to convey a more authoritative tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make it appear" functions as a causative expression, indicating an action that causes something to seem a certain way. It's often used to describe deliberate efforts to create a particular impression. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is appropriate in multiple context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

25%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make it appear" is a versatile phrase used to describe the act of creating a specific impression or semblance. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used in various contexts, including news, media, and academic writing. While it is generally neutral in register, it's advisable to use stronger verbs in more formal settings for enhanced sophistication. Remember to use this phrase when you want to express a deliberate effort to shape perception, even if that perception is not entirely accurate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

give the impression

Focuses on the act of imparting a specific feeling or idea.

create the illusion

Highlights the deceptive aspect of making something seem other than it is.

simulate

Emphasizes replicating the appearance or conditions of something.

fake

Implies a deliberate act of deception to resemble something genuine.

put on a show

Suggests a staged performance to project a certain image.

give the semblance

Stresses creating an outward likeness or similarity.

feign

Highlights the act of pretending or imitating.

portray

Focuses on depicting something in a particular way.

affect

Emphasizes influencing the perception of something.

masquerade

Suggests concealing one's true nature behind a false appearance.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "make it appear" to sound more formal?

In formal contexts, you can replace "make it appear" with options such as "simulate", "demonstrate", or "convey" to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "make it appear" and "give the impression"?

"Make it appear" suggests a deliberate attempt to create a specific perception, while "give the impression" can imply a more unintentional or natural feeling that arises.

Is "make it appear as if" grammatically correct?

Yes, "make it appear as if" is grammatically correct. It adds a layer of conditionality, indicating that the appearance is contingent on certain circumstances or conditions.

Can "make it appear" be used in negative contexts?

Yes, "make it appear" can be used in negative contexts to describe attempts to conceal or misrepresent something. For instance, "They tried to make it appear that the damage was minimal".