seem like

USAGE SUMMARY

"seem like" is correct and usable in written English.
It is a phrase that functions as a synonym for "appear to be". You can use it to express what something appears or seems to be or to suggest a comparison between two things. Example: She seems like the type of person who always puts others first.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His wife and children seem like strangers.

The New Yorker

Always seem like you're having fun.

WikiHow

It didn't seem like much.

The New Yorker

They seem like ordinary objects.

The New Yorker

These seem like powerful arguments.

The New Yorker

They seem like a fit.

The New York Times

Yeah, those seem like fun.

The New Yorker

Didn't seem like it.

The New Yorker

They seem like appetizers.

The New York Times - Travel

It would seem like pointless masochism.

The Economist

It did seem like a perfect match.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seem like" to express an impression or appearance that may not be entirely accurate or confirmed. It's useful when you want to convey a subjective observation.

Common error

Avoid using "seem like" when you want to express a definite fact or confirmed information. Opt for more assertive language if you have concrete evidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seem like" functions as a linking verb, connecting the subject to a noun, adjective, or clause that describes or identifies it. As Ludwig AI indicates, it expresses an appearance or impression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

7%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "seem like" is a versatile linking verb phrase used to express appearances or impressions. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. It's most commonly found in news and media, but also appears frequently in wiki content. While it's grammatically correct and widely used, it's important to avoid confusing it with definitive statements. Alternatives like "appear to be" can be used depending on the context. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively incorporate "seem like" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appear to be

Emphasizes the outward appearance or impression of something.

look as if

Suggests a visual similarity or resemblance.

give the impression of

Highlights the feeling or perception created.

strike as

Implies a particular feeling or thought that comes to mind.

come across as

Focuses on how someone or something is perceived by others.

sound like

Suggests a similarity in sound or manner of speaking.

feel like

Indicates a resemblance in feeling or sensation.

have the air of

Implies a particular quality or atmosphere.

present as

Focuses on how something is presented or portrayed.

profess to be

Highlights a claim or assertion about one's identity or qualities.

FAQs

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

You can use "seem like" to describe an impression or appearance. For example, "He "seems like" a nice person" or "The situation "seems like" it's improving".

What are some alternatives to "seem like"?

Alternatives include "appear to be", "look as if", or "give the impression of", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "seems like" or "seem like"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "seems like" with singular subjects (e.g., "It seems like") and "seem like" with plural subjects (e.g., "They seem like").

What's the difference between "seem like" and "is like"?

"Seem like" implies an appearance or impression, while "is like" suggests a comparison or analogy. For example, "He "seems like" a friend" (impression) vs. "He "is like" a brother to me" (comparison).