seems like it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seems like it" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to suggest that something is likely true, despite not having any solid evidence to confirm it. For example, "He said he was going to come home early today – seems like it." In this sentence, you are indicating that it appears the person is going to come home early, but you don't have any definite proof.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

Sure seems like it.

The New York Times

It seems like it.

The New Yorker

It hardly seems like it.

The New Yorker

It sure seems like it.

Harvard University

I mean, it sure seems like it".

The New York Times

It certainly seems like it should be.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

Seemed like it.

The Guardian - Travel

It has not seemed like it.

The Economist

"It seemed like it worked really good.

The New York Times - Sports

Didn't seem like it.

The New Yorker

It seemed like it might stay small.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you are unsure about something that is already implied, adding "seems like it" makes you sound less presumptuous.

Common error

While "seems like it" is a useful phrase, avoid overusing it in your writing. Excessive repetition can make your writing sound repetitive and lacking in confidence. Vary your language by using synonyms or more direct statements when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seems like it" functions as an elliptical clause, standing in for a more complete statement. It expresses an assessment or conclusion based on available information, as supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

25%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "seems like it" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression that conveys a sense of likelihood or possibility based on available information. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and common usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral in register, it tends towards informality. When writing, use it to suggest something without claiming it as definitive fact, but be mindful of overuse. Consider alternatives like ""it appears so"" in more formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

so it seems

This alternative reverses the word order for emphasis.

it appears so

This alternative is more concise and emphasizes visual evidence or immediate perception.

it looks that way

This alternative focuses on visual cues as the primary basis for the conclusion.

it would seem

This alternative introduces a slightly more formal tone and suggests a deduction based on indirect evidence.

the evidence suggests

This alternative highlights how the conclusion is derived by the evidence that supports it.

it seems probable

This alternative explicitly states the likelihood of something being true.

it suggests that

This alternative highlights the indicative nature of the available information, implying a reasoned conclusion.

it gives that impression

This alternative emphasizes the subjective feeling or perception derived from the situation.

one might think so

This alternative introduces a degree of uncertainty or speculation.

apparently

This alternative is a shorter more concise statement.

FAQs

How can I use "seems like it" in a sentence?

Use "seems like it" to indicate a likelihood or possibility based on the information available. For example, "He said he was working late, "it appears so"".

What are some alternatives to "seems like it"?

You can use phrases like ""it appears so"", "it would seem", or "it looks that way" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "seems like it" formal or informal?

"Seems like it" is generally considered informal and is more suited to casual conversation or less formal writing. For more formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "it would seem".

When is it appropriate to use "seems like it"?

It's appropriate to use "seems like it" when you want to express an opinion or belief that is not based on concrete evidence but rather on observation or inference. It suggests a degree of uncertainty or speculation.