may seem like

USAGE SUMMARY

"may seem like" is correct and usable in written English and can be used to express that a situation appears to be the case, even if it is not necessarily true.
Example: "It may seem like he doesn't care, but he actually puts a lot of effort into his work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These may seem like extreme cases.

The New York Times

This may seem like ancient history.

The New York Times

This may seem like an academic debate.

The New Yorker

This may seem like extraordinary vanity.

Independent

These may seem like silly questions.

The Economist

This may seem like a waste.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

This may seem like a semantic debate.

The Washington Post

It may seem like splitting hairs.

The Washington Post

This may seem like a backwards step.

Harvard Business Review

This may seem like stating the obvious.

The Guardian

That may seem like a doubtful proposition.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "may seem like", always follow it with a clarifying statement or contrasting point to provide a balanced and nuanced view.

Common error

Avoid using "may seem like" as a mere filler. Ensure that each instance introduces a genuine contrast or surprising element to maintain the reader's interest and engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may seem like" functions as an introductory phrase to present something that appears to be one way but might actually be different. It sets up a contrast, inviting the reader to consider an alternative perspective. Ludwig AI validates this usage based on numerous real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

21%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "may seem like" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a contrast or alternative perspective. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and high frequency across diverse contexts, particularly in news, academic, and scientific domains. When writing, use this phrase to encourage critical thinking and avoid simply stating the obvious. Be mindful of providing context and alternative viewpoints to enhance clarity and engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might appear as

Focuses on the appearance or visual impression.

could be perceived as

Emphasizes the subjective interpretation of something.

might strike one as

Highlights a particular impression on someone.

could give the impression of

Focuses on the impression that something creates.

may give the impression of

Emphasizes the impression conveyed by something.

could look like

Highlights visual similarity or appearance.

might be construed as

Focuses on how something could be interpreted, often negatively.

can come across as

Highlights how someone or something is perceived by others.

is seemingly

Indicates something appears to be the case, but might not actually be.

gives the impression

Highlights the impression conveyed, without using a modal verb.

FAQs

How can I use "may seem like" in a sentence?

"May seem like" is used to introduce something that appears to be one way, but might actually be different. For example, "It "may seem like" a simple task, but it requires careful planning".

What can I say instead of "may seem like"?

You can use alternatives like "might appear as", "could be perceived as", or "might strike one as" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "may seem like" or "may seems like"?

"May seem like" is the correct form. The verb "seem" should be in its base form after the modal verb "may".

What's the difference between "may seem like" and "appears to be"?

"May seem like" suggests a degree of uncertainty or potential deception in the appearance, while "appears to be" simply indicates how something looks or presents itself without necessarily implying a contrast or hidden reality.