seems unlike

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seems unlike" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing two things and indicating that they do not share similarities or characteristics. Example: "The new policy seems unlike the previous one, which was more lenient."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Going out of your way to hurt the miserably bereaved: this mystifying lurch into Facebook troll territory seems, unlike the latest yodelling from Louise Mensch, the Sun's current "hero of the week", a really pressing reason to address the cruelty that sloshes anonymously around the internet.

The Guardian - Opinion

The rumor states there may be sensor-shift stabilization, which seems unlike Canon.

TechCrunch

Twitter is also showing the video in its own tweet, but you cannot embed these (yet) on other sites, it seems, unlike YouTube links.

TechCrunch

The CT system seems, unlike that for cutaneous pain, to be a genuine component of the touch system; on the other hand, the CT system also doesn't appear to have any direct discriminative function.

SEP

On one hand it is surprising: these highly wired and progressive countries are welcoming of technology in so many forms that it seems unlike them to reject it in this one.

TechCrunch

That seems unlike him, don't you think?

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Unlike TALF, PPIP seems unlikely to work.

Forbes

Benoit seemed, unlike others, so peaceful".

Independent

She seemed unlike so many of the women whom he had impetuously taken up with.

The New Yorker

When he paused, he was greeted by that silence which seemed unlike any other.

The New Yorker

Burress's on-field theatrics — taking bows after Sunday's touchdown, for example — shape his public persona but seem unlike him.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "seems unlike" when you want to gently suggest a contrast or difference, implying that something is unexpected or unusual. This can be particularly useful in descriptive writing or when offering a nuanced observation.

Common error

Avoid using "seems unlike" excessively in formal reports or academic writing where precision and objectivity are paramount. More direct and specific language, such as "differs significantly" or "contrasts sharply", may be more appropriate to convey a clear distinction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seems unlike" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, expressing a perceived dissimilarity between two subjects. It indicates that something does not share the typical characteristics or qualities associated with something else. The Ludwig AI confirms that "seems unlike" is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "seems unlike" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express a perceived dissimilarity or unexpected contrast between two things. Ludwig AI confirms this and provides various examples. Its frequency is uncommon, appearing most often in news and media as well as scientific contexts. When writing, it is beneficial to use "seems unlike" for nuanced observations, but avoid overuse in formal reports where more precise language is preferred. For alternatives, consider phrases such as "appears dissimilar to" or "differs noticeably from" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appears dissimilar to

Focuses on the visual or perceived differences.

presents a contrast to

Highlights a direct opposition or difference.

differs noticeably from

Emphasizes a clear and easily observable difference.

bears little resemblance to

Stresses the lack of similarity in appearance or nature.

is inconsistent with

Indicates a lack of alignment or agreement.

is out of character for

Implies the phrase is not typical for someone or something.

is atypical of

Indicates a departure from the usual type or pattern.

is hardly indicative of

Suggests a weak or misleading indication.

departs from the norm of

Highlights deviation from a standard or expectation.

deviates significantly from

Shows a notable departure from something else.

FAQs

How can I use "seems unlike" in a sentence?

Use "seems unlike" to express a contrast or unexpected difference between two subjects. For example: "The new policy "seems unlike" the previous one, which was more lenient."

What phrases are similar to "seems unlike"?

Similar phrases include "appears dissimilar to", "differs noticeably from", or "bears little resemblance to", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "seems unlike" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, consider more precise alternatives like "differs significantly" or "contrasts sharply" in formal reports to ensure clarity and objectivity. The term "seems unlike" is appropriate for less formal writing, but be sure the subtlety of tone is what you intend to convey.

What is the difference between "seems unlike" and "is unlike"?

"Seems unlike" implies a subjective assessment or initial impression of dissimilarity, while "is unlike" states a more definite or objective difference. The former is more tentative and less assertive.