seem able to

USAGE SUMMARY

"seem able to" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe a perceived ability or potential of someone or something. For example, "Despite his young age, John seemed able to handle the responsibility of being a team leader." This implies that although John may not have previous experience as a leader, he appears capable and equipped to take on the role successfully.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"Every year we seem able to produce talented players".

The New York Times - Sports

Few other readers seem able to muster more enthusiasm.

The Economist

India's policymakers only seem able to reform under duress.

The Economist

None of the other candidates seem able to get airborne.

The New York Times - Magazine

However, successful companies seem able to overcome similar problems decisively.

The Guardian

And certainly, plenty of people seem able to do so.

The Guardian - Books

Other countries seem able to deal with richer nations without sacrificing every vestige of dignity.

Independent

Gut bacteria, in particular, seem able to affect all kinds of bodily functions.

The Economist

How is it that certain minds seem able to forestall senescence despite genetic programming?

The New Yorker

Blount can't seem able to lower his shoulder and deliver a great blow.

The New York Times

We don't seem able to build up nuclear power as significant protection against climate change.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seem able to" when you want to express an observation or impression about someone or something's ability, without stating it as a definite fact.

Common error

Avoid using "seem able to" when you have concrete evidence of someone's ability. Instead, opt for stronger verbs that convey certainty, such as "is", "can", or "has proven to be".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seem able to" functions as a qualifying verb phrase. It expresses a perception or impression of someone or something's ability, without making a definitive statement. As Ludwig AI points out, it indicates a perceived potential rather than a confirmed skill.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "seem able to" is a versatile phrase used to express an impression of capability, without asserting it as a definite fact. As noted by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. The analysis reveals its prevalence in news media, followed by science and formal business contexts. For more definitive statements, consider alternatives like "is able to" or "can". The phrase's neutral register makes it appropriate for broad use, though formality should be considered in academic or highly professional settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appear capable of

Emphasizes the outward appearance of having the necessary skills or qualities.

appear to have the capacity to

Highlights the inherent potential or ability to perform a task.

appear to possess the ability to

Similar to 'appear capable of', but adds a sense of ownership or inherent trait.

give the impression of being able to

Focuses on the perception created, rather than necessarily the reality.

strike one as capable of

Implies that an observer forms an opinion of someone's ability.

seem competent to

Focuses specifically on having the required skills or knowledge.

look as though they can

More informal way of expressing perceived capability.

look to be in a position to

Highlights the circumstances that allow someone to do something.

come across as someone who can

Focuses on the impression someone gives regarding their abilities.

show signs of being able to

Indicates that there is evidence suggesting capability.

FAQs

How to use "seem able to" in a sentence?

Use "seem able to" when you want to express a tentative observation about someone or something's capacity or potential. For instance, "The new software "seems able to" handle large datasets efficiently."

What can I say instead of "seem able to"?

You can use alternatives like "appear capable of", "appear to have the capacity to", or "give the impression of being able to" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Which is correct, "seem able to" or "seems able to"?

"Seem able to" is generally used with plural subjects or the pronoun 'I' or 'you', while "seems able to" is used with singular subjects. For example, "They "seem able to" manage the project well" vs. "He "seems able to" adapt quickly."

What's the difference between "seem able to" and "is able to"?

"Seem able to" indicates an impression or appearance of ability, whereas "is able to" suggests a confirmed or demonstrated ability. "He "seems able to" solve complex problems" implies an observation, while "He "is able to" solve complex problems" states a fact.