make it seem like

USAGE SUMMARY

"make it seem like" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to compare something to something else, or to suggest that something has the appearance of something else. For example, "The special effects were so convincing that it made it seem like we were actually there."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She said, "I will make it seem like motherhood".

The New York Times

They make it seem like all technical and methodological challenges of NLP have been solved.

Perspectives on Data Science for Software Engineering

"Please don't make it seem like that," he said.

The Guardian - Music

And then they make it seem like an everyday occurrence?

The Guardian - Arts

William Hurt's art as an actor is to make it seem like it's improvised and spontaneous.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Unfortunately, these Tweets really do make it seem like you care, Shkreli.

Independent

"They make it seem like this guy is a big killer.

The New York Times

And discussion of the game online can make it seem like a joke.

Independent

The results of that change of plan make it seem like a sensible decision.

Independent

You got people who are trying to make it seem like being rich is bad".

The New Yorker

"You people make it seem like a real Christmas to me," Charlie said.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make it seem like" when you want to convey that something is presented in a way that creates a particular impression, whether truthful or not. For instance, "They structured the argument to "make it seem like" their solution was the only logical choice."

Common error

While "make it seem like" is common, it can sound informal. In academic or professional writing, consider more precise alternatives like "suggest", "imply", or "indicate" to avoid undermining your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make it seem like" functions as an idiomatic expression used to describe the act of creating a particular impression or appearance. It suggests that something is being presented in a way designed to influence perception, whether truthfully or deceptively. Ludwig confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Wiki

38%

Science

24%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make it seem like" is a common and grammatically sound idiomatic expression used to describe creating a specific impression or appearance. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While frequently found in news, media, and informal contexts like WikiHow, it should be used cautiously in formal writing. Consider alternatives like "suggest", "imply", or "indicate" for professional or academic settings. The phrase is effective for conveying the manipulation or shaping of perceptions, emphasizing the subjective nature of appearances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

give the impression of

Focuses on the impression created, rather than the act of making something appear a certain way.

create the illusion of

Emphasizes the deceptive aspect of making something appear different from reality.

lead one to believe

Highlights the act of persuading someone to think a certain way.

appear to be

A more direct way of stating that something has a particular appearance, without explicitly stating an intention to deceive.

suggest that

Implies a subtle indication or hint, rather than a deliberate attempt to create an impression.

give the idea that

Similar to "give the impression", but focuses on the cognitive aspect of forming an idea.

portray as

Highlights the act of depicting something in a specific way, often in art or media.

simulate the effect of

Focuses on replicating the effect of something, often in a technical or scientific context.

present as

Emphasizes the act of offering something in a particular way.

fake it till you make it

An idiomatic expression suggesting to act as if you are successful in order to become successful.

FAQs

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

Consider using phrases such as "suggest that", "imply", or "indicate". These alternatives offer a more sophisticated tone for formal writing.

Is "make it seem like" grammatically correct?

Yes, "make it seem like" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English. However, as Ludwig AI confirms, be mindful of the context and audience to determine if it's the most appropriate choice.

What's the difference between "make it seem like" and "make it look like"?

"Make it look like" primarily refers to visual appearance, while "make it seem like" is broader and can refer to any kind of impression, including auditory, emotional, or logical impressions. You can use both phrases depending on the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "make it seem like" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "make it seem like" when you want to express that something is presented in a way that creates a particular impression or gives a specific appearance, whether that appearance is genuine or misleading. However, avoid using this phrase in professional writing.