English · Common Verbs

seem

/siːm/

[/siːm/]

appear to be

Intermediateverb

Definition

To give the impression of being or having a certain quality. It expresses appearance rather than certainty.

Example

She seems tired today, so perhaps she did not sleep well last night.

She seems tired today, so perhaps she did not sleep well last night.

Etymology

From Old Norse 'soema' (to honor, conform to), later meaning to appear.

How & Where It’s Used

Common as a linking verb describing impressions.

Watch “appear to be” pronunciation on YouTube
appearanceperception

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