seem equal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seem equal" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing perceptions of fairness, balance, or similarity between two or more entities or situations. Example: "In this debate, both sides seem equal in their arguments, making it difficult to choose a winner."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Edward and Alice certainly don't seem equal in guilt.

The New York Times

With so many moving parts in the policy space, determining a Washington strategy (and a budget) can seem equal parts art and luck.

Harvard Business Review

Especially if located in Berlin, he and others argue, the center would make Germans seem equal in their victimization to the peoples, including the Poles, whom they harmed.

The New York Times

Avoidance and engagement seem equal combatants until a final siren seals the issue (perhaps detracting a bit from a convincing musical structure).

The New York Times - Arts

For the better part of a decade, the accuracy rate for extra points has hovered around 99 percent, making the kick itself seem equal parts automatic and superfluous.

The New York Times

Finally I racked my brain for things I could sweeten my offer with, things that might seem equal in value to helpful relatives, a stone barbecue, a crazily advantageous phone plan, solar gain siting.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

The undertaking seemed equal parts Architecture 101 and Norval and Fran's excellent adventure.

The New York Times

Manuel Davis is a tall, chiselled woman who seemed equal parts coach and revival leader.

The New Yorker

Giuliani unseated Dinkins — just barely — at a moment when the city seemed equal parts crime, graffiti, and squeegee men.

The New Yorker

In many ways, it still seems equal parts amusing, surreal and enraging that such an institution exists.

The Guardian - Opinion

I've run them both ways but I get less chatter in the high-pressure pump when I use the feed pump but performance seems equal.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seem equal" to express a subjective assessment or perception of equivalence, rather than a precise measurement. It is particularly useful when discussing abstract concepts or qualities.

Common error

Avoid using "seem equal" when you have concrete data demonstrating inequality. This phrase is best used when you are conveying an impression or initial assessment, not a definitive conclusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seem equal" functions as a linking verb phrase, connecting a subject with a predicate adjective to express a perceived state of equivalence or similarity. Ludwig AI confirms this use aligns with common grammatical practice.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "seem equal" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to convey a subjective perception of equivalence. Ludwig AI confirms that the usage is correct and usable in written English. It is suitable for a variety of contexts, as demonstrated by its presence in both news articles and scientific papers. While alternatives like "appear equivalent" or "look comparable" exist, "seem equal" offers a balance of formality and expressiveness suitable for general use. Remember to reserve it for situations where you want to express an impression rather than a definitively proven fact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appear equivalent

Focuses on the visual or superficial aspect of being equal.

look comparable

Emphasizes a visual assessment of similarity.

are ostensibly the same

Highlights that the equality is apparent but possibly deceptive.

give the impression of equality

Suggests that equality is a perceived effect rather than a fact.

strike as identical

Indicates a strong, immediate perception of sameness.

present as balanced

Highlights the aspect of balance rather than strict equality.

are seemingly identical

Similar to 'ostensibly the same', with a focus on superficial appearance.

suggest equivalence

Implies that equality is not directly stated but hinted at.

approximate equality

Indicates a near or rough equality.

are roughly comparable

Implies a comparison that results in an approximate similarity, not exact equality.

FAQs

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

You can use "seem equal" to express that two or more things give the impression of being balanced or of the same value. For example, "The candidates "seem equal" in their qualifications, making it a difficult choice."

What can I say instead of "seem equal"?

Alternatives to "seem equal" include "appear equivalent", "look comparable", or "are ostensibly the same", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "seem equal" or "are equal"?

"Seem equal" suggests a subjective perception, while "are equal" implies an objective fact. Use "seem equal" when you're expressing an impression; use "are equal" when you have definitive evidence.

What's the difference between "seem equal" and "appear equal"?

While both "seem equal" and "appear equal" suggest a superficial likeness, "seem equal" may imply a more considered judgment, while "appear equal" focuses more on a visual or immediate impression.