seem distinct

USAGE SUMMARY

"seem distinct" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are trying to describe two things that appear or seem to be separate or distinct from each other. For example, "The two groups of people seemed distinct based on their different clothing and language."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Brown seaweeds, such as wracks, still seem distinct.

The Guardian

These dissents, delivered with authority and panache, made originalism seem distinct and forceful.

The New Yorker

The two projects may seem distinct, but they are not, since minds differ, but bodies are alike.

The New York Times - Books

Yet the library, at 148,000 square feet, manages not to seem distinct from the rest of the campus, which has not had any new academic construction in 36 years.

The New York Times

The trouble is, it doesn't seem distinct enough right now and it's strategic positioning seems flawed in 2008.

TechCrunch

Space and time seem distinct from substances because they are causally inert, causally inaccessible their aspects or properties cannot be altered by interacting with any other substance and imperceptible.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

This identification is implausible since, for example, the informative content of 7+5=12 seems distinct from the informative content of 12=12, which in turn seems distinct from the informative content of Gödel's first incompleteness theorem – and yet all three have the same range.

SEP

Subtype V consisted of Strains Gou3, ZJ5 and Yongjia Rn14, and it seemed distinct from the other SEO viruses in phylogenetic tree.

BMC Infectious Diseases

However, with increasing knowledge from in vitro studies, pathways that once initially seemed distinct have become blurred, revealing the extent of the complexity as to how small RNAs act in gene regulation.

BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine

For instance, the ADP-GLKs in Bos Taurus and Dictyostelium discoideum are similar to the archaeon ADP-GLKs; however, the T. tengcongensis ADP-GLK seems distinct from the archaeon ADP-GLKs.

BioMed Research International

But the genres seem very distinct to me.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seem distinct" to convey a noticeable difference between two or more things based on initial observation or impression. It's effective when you want to express that while things might have underlying connections, they initially appear separate.

Common error

Avoid using "seem distinct" when a stronger verb like "are", "differentiate", or "contrast" would provide a more precise and impactful description. Overusing "seem distinct" can weaken your writing and create ambiguity where clarity is needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seem distinct" functions as a modifier, indicating that something gives the impression of being separate or different. It is often used to express a perceived difference based on initial observation, as evidenced by examples in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "seem distinct" is a grammatically sound expression used to convey a perceived difference or separation between entities. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and appropriateness. Predominantly found in scientific and news media contexts, the phrase carries a neutral register, making it versatile for various writing styles. When using this phrase, consider whether a stronger verb might offer a more precise description. While "seem distinct" is useful for expressing an initial impression, overuse can dilute the impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are perceived as distinct

Highlights how something is viewed by others.

are regarded as different

Focuses on the assessment or judgement of something being unalike.

appear different

Focuses on visual perception of difference rather than a general impression of distinction.

feel like different

Highlights the subjective experience of perceiving differences between entities.

look dissimilar

Emphasizes a lack of similarity in appearance.

stand apart

Emphasizes the clear separation and independence of one entity from others.

strike as separate

Highlights the impression of separateness or independence.

are considered unrelated

Highlights the perception of a lack of connection or association.

come across as discrete

Implies a careful and clear separation between items.

present as unconnected

Focuses on the absence of a perceived relationship.

FAQs

How can I use "seem distinct" in a sentence?

Use "seem distinct" to indicate that two or more things give the impression of being separate or different from each other. For example, "Although they shared a common origin, their current lifestyles "seem distinct"."

What can I say instead of "seem distinct"?

You can use alternatives like "appear different", "look dissimilar", or "are perceived as distinct" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "seem distinct" or "are distinct"?

"Seem distinct" implies an initial impression or observation, whereas "are distinct" states a definite fact. The choice depends on whether you're expressing a perception or a confirmed difference.

What's the difference between "seem distinct" and "seem separate"?

"Seem distinct" emphasizes differences in characteristics or qualities, while "seem separate" focuses on a lack of connection or interaction. For instance, "Their political views "seem distinct"" highlights differences in opinion, while "Their offices "seem separate"" suggests physical or organizational distance.