seems to be doing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seems to be doing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express an observation or perception about someone's actions or state that appears to be happening. Example: "She seems to be doing well in her new job, adapting quickly to the team dynamics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The book seems to be doing well.

The New York Times

Britain seems to be doing the opposite.

The Economist

"And he seems to be doing it".

The New Yorker

But he seems to be doing better.

The New York Times - Sports

It seems to be doing the rounds.

The Economist

Bob Braisted seems to be doing okay.

The Washington Post

He seems to be doing that".

The Guardian - Sport

The left seems to be doing better.

The New York Times

So it seems to be doing pretty well.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Mr McCain seems to be doing precisely the opposite.

The Economist

That's what Legere seems to be doing here".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seems to be doing" to convey an observation based on available evidence, without asserting absolute certainty. This allows for a nuanced perspective.

Common error

Avoid using "seems to be doing" when you possess concrete evidence; instead, opt for more definitive language to reflect the level of certainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seems to be doing" functions as a linking verb phrase, connecting a subject to a descriptive element while expressing an impression or observation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Academia

11%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "seems to be doing" is a common and grammatically correct way to express an observation or assessment, often with a degree of uncertainty. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its frequent use across various contexts, particularly in news and media, and academia. While it conveys an impression, it's essential to avoid overstating certainty when using this phrase, instead using definitive language when more concrete evidence is available. Alternative phrases, such as "appears to be performing" or "looks like they are managing", can offer subtle variations in meaning and tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appears to be performing

This alternative uses "performing" instead of "doing", implying a level of skill or execution.

looks like they are managing

This alternative suggests a degree of control or handling of a situation.

appears to be succeeding

This alternative emphasizes the positive outcome or achievement.

seems to be progressing well

This alternative highlights the continuous advancement or improvement.

appears to be functioning

This alternative implies a basic operational state.

looks as if it's working out

This alternative suggests a resolution or a problem being solved.

seems to be handling it well

This alternative emphasizes the manner in which something is being dealt with.

appears to be coping

This alternative suggests that someone is managing a difficult situation.

seems to be faring

This alternative implies a comparison of how someone is doing relative to expectations or others.

looks to be getting by

This alternative indicates a minimal level of success or survival.

FAQs

How can I use "seems to be doing" in a sentence?

The phrase "seems to be doing" expresses an observation based on available evidence. For example: "She "seems to be doing" well in her new role."

What phrases are similar to "seems to be doing"?

Similar phrases include "appears to be performing", "looks like they are managing", or "appears to be succeeding".

Is "seems to be doing" grammatically correct?

Yes, "seems to be doing" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written and spoken English to express an observation or perception.

When should I use "seems to be doing" versus a more definitive phrase?

Use "seems to be doing" when you want to convey an impression based on observation, without stating it as an absolute fact. Opt for a more definitive phrase when you have concrete evidence.