seem that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'seem that' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is a way of expressing that something appears to be true or certain. For example, "It seems that the weather will be sunny this weekend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It didn't seem that bad".

The New Yorker

"They don't seem that high.

The New York Times

It doesn't seem that hard".

The New York Times - Sports

He did seem that way.

The New Yorker

It might seem that way.

The New York Times

Tolerance F.C.? It would seem that way.

The New York Times

It would seem that way, Hex.

The New York Times

It can certainly seem that way.

The New York Times

The students didn't seem that surprised.

The New Yorker

It didn't seem that way.

The Guardian - Sport

Does it seem that long?

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seem that" to express an impression or appearance that may not be definitively proven, ensuring clarity in your statement.

Common error

While "seem that" is generally acceptable, in highly formal writing, consider alternatives like "it appears that" or "it is evident that" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seem that" functions as a connector introducing a subordinate clause expressing an impression or belief. This use is supported by Ludwig AI which indicates that the phrase is correct and can be used in written English. It often connects a main clause with a statement that presents something as apparently true.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "seem that" is a versatile construction used to express an impression or belief without definitive certainty. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage across various written contexts. It primarily functions as a connector introducing a subordinate clause. While generally neutral in register, its overuse should be avoided in highly formal writing. Its prevalence in sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian underscores its acceptability in news and media. When aiming to convey subtle shades of meaning related to appearance or belief, consider alternative phrases such as "appear that" or "suggest that".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Appear that

Suggests a visual impression or outward manifestation, differing slightly from a general sense of seeming.

Give the impression that

More verbose, emphasizing the creation of a specific feeling or perception.

Suggest that

Implies a hint or indirect indication, rather than a direct appearance.

Create the impression that

More verbose, emphasizing the creation of a specific feeling or perception.

Indicate that

More formal and definitive than "seem that", implying a stronger signal.

Suggest the idea that

More verbose, emphasizing the concept or notion being suggested.

Imply that

Focuses on indirect communication or suggestion.

Lead one to believe that

Emphasizes the resultant belief in someone, rather than the initial appearance.

Point to the fact that

Highlights specific evidence or facts that support the impression.

It is believed that

Shifts the focus to a general belief, rather than a personal perception.

FAQs

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

You can use "seem that" to introduce a clause expressing an impression or appearance, such as, "It "seems that" the project is nearing completion".

What are some alternatives to "seem that"?

Alternatives include "appear that", "suggest that", or "indicate that", which offer similar but nuanced ways to express an impression or indication.

Which is correct, "seem that" or "seems that"?

"Seem that" is generally used with a preceding pronoun or clause, like "it "seem that"". "Seems that" is typically used when the subject is singular and third person, like "he "seems that"".

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

While similar, ""seem that"" generally implies a subjective impression, whereas ""appear that"" often suggests a more visual or outward manifestation.