Look, Seem, Appear

Look, Seem, Appear

Hello, English learners. Welcome to a new lesson. We will discuss the difference between the verbs look, seem, and appear.

The difference between look, seem and appear are subtle but important. Let’s look at them!

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Look

The verb “look” often refers to the physical appearance of someone or something. It can describe what is visible or how someone presents themselves. For example, “She looks happy” directly relates to her facial expression and posture.

• He looks tired after a long day at work.
• The cake looks delicious; I can’t wait to try a piece!
• She looked surprised when she heard the news.
• The garden looks beautiful in the spring.
• You look great in that new dress!
• It looks like it might rain later today.
• The puppy looks so cute while playing with its toys.

Seem

This term conveys an impression or perception based on subjective experience or observation. It might not be based on physical appearance and can imply a judgment or assumption. For example, “He seems upset” suggests that, based on his behaviour or context, you infer that he is feeling upset, even if you cannot see it directly.  

• He seems really excited about his new job.
• They seem to be happy together, always laughing and smiling.
• It seems like the meeting went well based on the positive feedback.
• She seems interested in learning more about the project.
• The instructions seem a bit confusing at first.
• He seems to have forgotten his appointment.
• The weather seems cooler than it was last week.
• That movie seems worth watching; I’ve heard great reviews.
• She seems tired today; she might not have slept well.
• It seems that he is taking the news much better than expected.

Appear

This word is somewhat similar to “look” but can have a more formal tone and can imply an external view. It can also suggest something is not as it seems. For example, “The house appears old” indicates a judgment based on observation but is more neutral than “look.” It also implies a reality that could differ from what is presented: “They appear to be happy, but there may be issues beneath the surface”.

• The stars appear brighter in the countryside than they do in the city.
• She appears to be focused on her work right now.
• It appears that the project will take longer than anticipated.
• He appeared shocked when he heard the unexpected news.
• The car appears to be in good condition despite its age.
• They appear to have made significant progress on the renovations.
• The report appears to have some inconsistencies that need to be addressed.
• She appeared happy at the party, but I wonder how she really felt.
• It appears that the movie is sold out for the weekend.
• The situation may appear straightforward, but there are many complexities involved.

In summary, “look” is more about physical sight, “seem” relates to perception based on understanding or context, and “appear” can combine both while sometimes hinting at a deeper interpretation.

Look, seem, appear

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