seem to apply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seem to apply" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that appears to be relevant or applicable in a certain context or situation. Example: "The rules seem to apply equally to all participants in the competition."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Different rules seem to apply to women.

The Guardian

They seem to apply a different standard".

The New York Times

The laws of physics don't seem to apply.

The New York Times - Arts

The same would seem to apply to Blake.

The New York Times - Sports

Because all the usual things don't seem to apply".

The New York Times - Magazine

And different rules seem to apply to different firms.

The Economist

Social rules don't seem to apply in the country.

The Guardian - Opinion

That would seem to apply to feature-film making, too.

The Guardian - Film

But one lesson just doesn't seem to apply anymore.

The New York Times

But on the streets of Manhattan no such restrictions seem to apply.

The New York Times

THE usual laws of corporate finance do not seem to apply to banks.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "seem to apply", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is appearing to be relevant or applicable. Avoid ambiguity by specifying the subject and situation to which the phrase refers.

Common error

Avoid using "seem to apply" when you have definitive evidence. This phrase suggests a degree of uncertainty or observation rather than established fact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seem to apply" functions as a qualifying verb phrase. It indicates an apparent relevance or applicability, suggesting that something may be in effect or relevant, but without absolute certainty. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "seem to apply" is a versatile phrase used to express the apparent relevance or applicability of something in a given context. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. It functions as a qualifying verb phrase, indicating a perceived relationship without absolute certainty. While suitable for various writing styles, it's crucial to avoid overstating certainty and to provide clear context. The phrase is most commonly found in News & Media and Scientific sources, making it a valuable tool for expressing nuanced observations in both formal and informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appear to be relevant

Focuses on the appearance of relevance rather than a definitive application.

appear to be applicable

Highlights the potential for something to be applied in a given situation.

appear to hold true

Emphasizes the truth or validity of something in a specific context.

appear to be pertinent

Stresses the direct relevance and importance of something.

appear to be fitting

Suggests that something is appropriate or suitable for a particular situation.

appear to be germane

Highlights the relevance and connection to a specific subject matter.

appear to relate

Indicates a connection or relationship between two or more things.

appear to connect

Emphasizes the linking or joining of elements or ideas.

appear to affect

Focuses on the influence or impact something has on a particular situation.

appear to bear on

Suggests a relevance or influence on a particular matter or situation.

FAQs

How can I use "seem to apply" in a sentence?

Use "seem to apply" to indicate that something appears relevant or applicable in a particular context. For example, "These rules "seem to apply" to everyone, regardless of their position."

What are some alternatives to "seem to apply"?

Alternatives include "appear to be relevant", "appear to be applicable", or "appear to hold true", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "seem to apply" or "appears to apply"?

Both "seem to apply" and "appears to apply" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice depends on personal preference, although "seem" might suggest a slightly stronger sense of observation or inference.

When should I avoid using the phrase "seem to apply"?

Avoid using "seem to apply" when you have concrete evidence or definitive proof. The phrase is best used when you are making an observation or inference based on available information, rather than stating a confirmed fact.