seem to indicate

USAGE SUMMARY

"seem to indicate" is a phrase that is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that something is suggesting or indicating something else. For example: The results of the survey seem to indicate that the majority of customers are satisfied with the product.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Now the silences seem to indicate something else.

The New York Times - Sports

Demographics seem to indicate that this trend will continue.

The New York Times

Checketts did seem to indicate that Smith's assistant, Don Maloney, would be considered for the job.

The New York Times - Sports

Moreover, scattered records of gunsmiths seem to indicate little demand for their wares, Mr. Bellesiles said.

The New York Times

Judge Sotomayor did seem to indicate that some policies were on firmer legal footing.

The New York Times

What factors seem to indicate the possible reduction of U.S. troops in Iraq? h.

The New York Times

Initial inquiries seem to indicate he wanted to go abroad to find work".

The Guardian

What do the questions seem to indicate the college wants to know about its applicants?

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Or so this speech seems to indicate.

The New Yorker

This seems to indicate that she means what they say.

The Guardian - Books

His change seems to indicate a rift between the men.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Prefer this phrase when analyzing data or observations, especially when drawing preliminary conclusions that may require further validation.

Common error

Avoid using "seem to indicate" when the evidence is conclusive. If the data provides a definitive answer, use stronger verbs like "proves", "establishes", or "demonstrates" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seem to indicate" functions as a hedge, softening a claim or interpretation. It suggests a direction or conclusion without definitively stating it. Ludwig shows examples across diverse contexts, consistently reflecting this nuanced usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "seem to indicate" is a useful tool for expressing cautious interpretations and tentative conclusions. As Ludwig AI explains, it functions as a hedge, allowing writers to suggest a direction without making a definitive statement. It is commonly found in News & Media and Scientific sources, which reflects its neutral to formal register. Remember to avoid overstating the strength of the indication when using this phrase, and consider alternatives like "suggest" or "imply" when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tend to suggest

Similar in meaning, but emphasizes a trend or inclination.

may indicate

Expresses a possibility rather than a firm indication.

suggest

A more direct synonym, lacking the hedging quality of "seem to indicate".

would suggest

Expresses a conditional or hypothetical suggestion.

imply

Focuses more on the indirect communication of an idea.

lead one to believe

Highlights the persuasive effect of the indication.

point to

Emphasizes evidence and direction.

give the impression

Focuses on the appearance or feeling created.

hint at

Indicates a subtle or indirect suggestion.

intimate

Suggests something delicately or indirectly.

FAQs

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

Use "seem to indicate" to express that something suggests a particular conclusion, but without asserting it as a certainty. For example: "The rising interest rates "seem to indicate" a potential economic slowdown".

What are some alternatives to "seem to indicate"?

You can use alternatives such as "suggest", "imply", or "point to" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "seem to indicate" or "indicates"?

"Seem to indicate" is used when you want to express a degree of uncertainty or cautious interpretation. "Indicates" is more direct and implies stronger evidence. The best choice depends on the strength of the evidence you're presenting.

What's the difference between "seem to indicate" and "suggest"?

"Suggest" is a more general term for implying something. "Seem to indicate" is more specific, often used when interpreting data or observations. While similar, "seem to indicate" often carries a slightly more formal tone.