seem the same

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seem the same" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing two objects or situations that appear to be identical or very similar. For example: "The two paintings seem the same, but upon closer inspection, there are subtle differences in the brushstrokes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

All that concrete may seem the same.

The New York Times - Science

Somehow, a Roomba just doesn't seem the same.

The New York Times

"Jurassic Park" will never seem the same again.

The Economist

This piece will never quite seem the same again.

The Guardian - Music

Why do campaign ads all seem the same?

The New York Times - Magazine

I'm against women being exploited for sex, but somehow this doesn't seem the same.

Independent

The color of the fairways and the flora always seem the same.

The New York Times

The humble sock will never seem the same after finishing this eye-catching picture book.

Independent

Her own face, in which beauty and intelligence seem the same thing, confirms it too.

The Guardian

Sometimes the two places are different, sometimes they seem the same.

The New York Times - Arts

But as portrayed here, the characters seem the same familiar roster of exasperating stereotypes.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seem the same" when you want to express that two or more things have a strong resemblance or lack significant differences. It's often used to describe initial impressions that might change upon closer inspection.

Common error

While "seem the same" is acceptable in many contexts, consider using more precise language like "are indistinguishable" or "appear identical" in formal or scientific writing to convey a greater degree of accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seem the same" functions as a linking verb phrase, connecting the subject of a sentence to a predicate adjective describing a state or quality. Ludwig confirms the phrase's grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "seem the same" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to convey an initial impression of similarity or indistinguishability. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. It functions as a linking verb phrase and has a neutral register, making it appropriate for diverse contexts, including news, general writing, and even some professional settings. While versatile, it's advisable to consider more precise alternatives like "appear identical" in formal or scientific writing where a higher degree of accuracy is needed. Predominantly found in News & Media, the phrase offers a common way to describe observations of likeness while implying a degree of subjectivity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are indistinguishable

Highlights the lack of notable difference.

are virtually the same

Indicates a very high degree of similarity, nearly identical.

appear identical

Focuses on a visual likeness or perfect match.

are much the same

Suggests a similarity with minor differences.

look alike

Emphasizes a visual similarity, often superficial.

bear a close resemblance

Highlights visual similarity and likeness.

feel identical

Highlights that the objects or concepts are indistinguishable via sensory perception or feeling.

are of a piece

Suggests a consistent and unified character or nature.

share common features

Emphasizes overlapping characteristics or traits.

have similar qualities

Highlights the presence of the same qualities.

FAQs

How can I use "seem the same" in a sentence?

You can use "seem the same" to describe things that appear very similar or identical at first glance. For example, "The two brands of coffee "seem the same", but their flavors are subtly different."

What are some alternatives to "seem the same"?

Some alternatives include "appear identical", "look alike", or "are indistinguishable", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "seem the same"?

Yes, "seem the same" is grammatically correct. "Seem" is a linking verb, and "the same" functions as a predicate adjective describing the subject.

What's the difference between "seem the same" and "are the same"?

"Seem the same" implies a perception or appearance of similarity, while "are the same" indicates a definitive identity. For example, "The twins "seem the same"" suggests they look alike, but "The twins "are the same"" would only be accurate if they were identical in every way.