seems to struggle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seems to struggle" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that appears to be experiencing difficulty or difficulty in achieving something. For example, "The student seems to struggle with math, so I offered to tutor him."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Samson seems to struggle.

The New Yorker

Flat, way flat". Samson seems to struggle.

The New Yorker

Mr Obama seems to struggle, just now, with simple jabs.

The Economist

Mr. Fischbein seems to struggle with a response.

The New York Times

Yet Burnett, in particular, seems to struggle with him.

The New York Times

Still, this does not fully explain why MIT also seems to struggle with these consequences.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Here, Bailey seems to struggle against his urge to reiterate his brother's worthlessness.

The New Yorker

One gallery-size group, carved from alabaster, seems to struggle from rocky pedestals like Michelangelo's "Slaves".

The New York Times - Arts

It's a line that everyone in the family seems to struggle with at times.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Mrs. Harris seemed to struggle.

The New York Times

Mr. Kruger paused and seemed to struggle to smile.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "seems to struggle", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject is struggling with. Providing specific details enhances clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

While "seems to struggle" is acceptable, overuse in formal writing can make your prose sound repetitive. Replace it with stronger verbs or more precise descriptions of the difficulty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seems to struggle" primarily functions as a qualifying verb phrase. It softens a statement about difficulty or inability, indicating an observed or perceived struggle rather than a definitive fact. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "seems to struggle" is a grammatically sound and widely used phrase, as validated by Ludwig AI. Its primary function is to describe a perceived difficulty or challenge, often with a degree of tentativeness. It is versatile enough for use in various contexts, particularly in news and media, academia, and general observations. While acceptable in formal writing, avoid overuse for stylistic reasons. Remember to provide context to clarify what the subject is struggling with for better clarity. The phrase conveys an observation more so than a statement of fact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appears to have difficulty

More formal and emphasizes the apparent nature of the difficulty.

appears to be challenged

Highlights the challenging aspect of the situation.

has a hard time

More informal and focuses on the difficulty experienced.

finds it difficult

Emphasizes the subjective experience of difficulty.

is having trouble

A common and slightly more casual alternative.

is grappling with

Suggests a more intense and active struggle.

is facing difficulties

Highlights the presence of obstacles.

is not coping well

Focuses on the inability to manage or deal with something effectively.

is faltering

Suggests a weakening or unsteady performance.

is underperforming

Focuses on not meeting expected standards or levels.

FAQs

How can I use "seems to struggle" in a sentence?

You can use "seems to struggle" to describe someone or something that appears to be having difficulty with a task or situation. For example, "He "appears to have difficulty" understanding the concept."

What are some alternatives to "seems to struggle"?

Alternatives include "has a hard time", "finds it difficult", or "is having trouble", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "seems to struggle" or "struggles"?

Using "seems to struggle" implies an observation or perception, while "struggles" states it as a fact. The choice depends on whether you're making an observation or stating a confirmed difficulty.

What's the difference between "seems to struggle" and "is grappling with"?

"Seems to struggle" suggests a visible difficulty, while "is grappling with" implies a more intense, active engagement in overcoming a challenge. The latter suggests more effort and determination.