seem to exist

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seem to exist" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the perception or appearance of something that may not be definitively proven to be real or present. Example: "In the vast universe, there are many phenomena that seem to exist beyond our current understanding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Women barely seem to exist.

The New York Times - Books

The data does not seem to exist.

The New York Times

Reformist Republican donors don't seem to exist.

The New York Times

Two types of adsorbed acetylene species seem to exist.

Chemical Engineering Science

"Money just didn't seem to exist," she said.

The Guardian - Arts

Digestive tracts seem to exist in order to digest food.

The New York Times

This facility doesn't seem to exist for children.

The Guardian

He increasingly doesn't seem to exist in any real way.

The Guardian - Sport

As for last words, they hardly seem to exist anymore.

The New Yorker

The two seem to exist in a fairly friendly symbiosis.

The New York Times - Arts

She was using toeholds that didn't seem to exist.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing abstract concepts or possibilities, "seem to exist" can soften the statement, acknowledging that the concept might not be fully realized or universally accepted.

Common error

Avoid using "seem to exist" when a more direct verb like 'is', 'are', or 'exists' would be more appropriate. Overuse can make your writing sound hesitant or uncertain when clarity is needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seem to exist" functions as an infinitive phrase typically used as part of a verb phrase. It indicates a perceived or apparent existence, rather than a definitively proven one. As noted by Ludwig AI, it reflects a sense of observation or inference.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

25%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "seem to exist" is a versatile infinitive phrase used to express a perceived or inferred existence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, especially in News & Media and Science, where nuanced claims are common. While generally neutral in register, overuse can lead to weaker writing. Alternatives such as "appear to be present" or "are believed to exist" offer subtle shifts in meaning, allowing for more precise expression. When writing, be mindful of choosing more direct verbs when appropriate to maintain clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appear to be present

Emphasizes the visible or noticeable aspect of existence.

give the impression of existing

Highlights that the existence is based on an impression rather than concrete proof.

look as if they exist

Focuses on the visual appearance of existence.

are thought to exist

Indicates that existence is a matter of consideration or theory.

are believed to exist

Indicates that existence is a matter of belief or assumption.

manifest as existing

Focuses on the way in which existence is revealed or demonstrated.

purport to exist

Suggests a claim of existence that may be questionable.

present the semblance of existence

Emphasizes that only an outward appearance or impression of existence is available.

ostensibly exist

Implies existence is apparent but potentially misleading.

are rumored to exist

Highlights that the existence is based on unverified rumors.

FAQs

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

You can use "seem to exist" to express that something's presence or reality is based on observation or inference, rather than concrete proof. For example: "Despite the lack of evidence, some believe that extraterrestrial life "seem to exist"."

What can I say instead of "seem to exist"?

You can use alternatives like "appear to be present", "give the impression of existing", or "are believed to exist" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "seems to exist" instead of "seem to exist"?

Yes, both are correct, but they are used with different subjects. "Seem to exist" is used with plural subjects (e.g., 'These problems seem to exist'), while "seems to exist" is used with singular subjects (e.g., 'This problem seems to exist').

What's the difference between "appear to exist" and "seem to exist"?

While both phrases suggest something's presence is based on observation, "appear to exist" often implies a more superficial or immediate impression, whereas ""seem to exist"" can suggest a more considered judgment or inference.