seemed like

USAGE SUMMARY

"seemed like" can be used in written English.
It is commonly used as a way to express that something appears to be the case. For example: It seemed like he was really enjoying the party.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

That seemed like days ago.

The New York Times

It seemed like forever.

The New Yorker

Seemed like an opportunity.

The New York Times - Arts

This seemed like completion.

The New Yorker

It seemed like paradise.

Independent

Seemed like money burned.

The New Yorker

"It seemed like an adventure.

The New York Times

"It seemed like divine intervention".

The New Yorker

"Something seemed like an improvement".

The New Yorker

It seemed like a fantasy.

The New York Times - Sports

He seemed like a hack.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seemed like" to express subjective impressions or perceptions, especially when you want to convey a sense of uncertainty or approximation. For example, "It "seemed like" a good idea at the time, but in retrospect, it wasn't."

Common error

Avoid using "seemed like" in formal or academic writing where more precise language is required. Opt for alternatives such as "appeared to be" or "suggested" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seemed like" functions as a linking phrase, connecting a subject with an impression or perception. It indicates how something appeared or felt to someone. Ludwig confirms this is a valid and common expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academic

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "seemed like" is a grammatically correct and very common phrase used to express subjective impressions or perceptions. Ludwig confirms that the expression is valid. While its use is appropriate in news, media, and informal contexts, more formal or scientific writing may benefit from alternatives such as "appeared to be" or "suggested". When employing "seemed like", consider the level of formality required and choose accordingly to maintain the desired tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appeared to be

Focuses on the visual aspect of appearing a certain way.

gave the impression of

Highlights the idea of creating a particular impression.

looked as if

Emphasizes the visual similarity to something else.

sounded like

Shifts the focus to auditory perception rather than visual.

had the air of

Suggests an atmosphere or quality that something possesses.

felt as though

Relates to a feeling or sensation experienced.

was suggestive of

Indicates that something implies or hints at something else.

portended as

Indicates the sense of foreshadowing.

struck me as

Highlights a personal assessment or judgment.

projected the image of

Focuses on the deliberate presentation of an image.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "seemed like"?

You can use alternatives like "appeared to be", "gave the impression of", or "looked as if" depending on the context.

Is it correct to use "seemed like" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "seemed like" is often considered informal. In formal writing, consider using alternatives such as "appeared to be" or "suggested" for a more professional tone.

How do I use "seemed like" in a sentence?

"Seemed like" is typically used to express a subjective impression or perception. For example, "The task "seemed like" it would take hours, but it was completed in just one."

What's the difference between "seemed like" and "seemed as if"?

Both "seemed like" and "seemed as if" are used to express impressions. However, "seemed as if" often implies a stronger degree of uncertainty or speculation. For instance, "It "seemed like" a simple solution" suggests a relatively straightforward impression, while "It "seemed as if" a miracle had occurred" conveys a sense of wonder or disbelief.