seeming 1 of 3

seeming

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noun

seeming

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verb

present participle of seem

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective seeming contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of seeming are apparent, illusory, and ostensible. While all these words mean "not actually being what appearance indicates," seeming implies a character in the thing observed that gives it the appearance, sometimes through intent, of something else.

the seeming simplicity of the story

In what contexts can apparent take the place of seeming?

The synonyms apparent and seeming are sometimes interchangeable, but apparent suggests appearance to unaided senses that may or may not be borne out by more rigorous examination or greater knowledge.

the apparent cause of the accident

When is it sensible to use illusory instead of seeming?

The words illusory and seeming can be used in similar contexts, but illusory implies a false impression based on deceptive resemblance or faulty observation, or influenced by emotions that prevent a clear view.

an illusory sense of security

When could ostensible be used to replace seeming?

The words ostensible and seeming are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, ostensible suggests a discrepancy between an openly declared or naturally implied aim or reason and the true one.

the ostensible reason for their visit

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of seeming
Adjective
Single digit morning temperatures, windchills below zero and the seeming constant hum of a furnace working overtime to keep indoors temperatures livable. Karl Ebert, Journal Sentinel, 31 Jan. 2023 That said, overall investment in healthcare is really just back to 2019 levels, a seeming regression to the mean after the pandemic spurred investment capital into areas like drug development, telehealth and other parts of the healthcare industry. Alex Knapp, Forbes, 25 Jan. 2023
Noun
Warm, funny and generally fairly calm seeming, Nimino doesn’t seem too preoccupied with his virality or with trying to top it. Katie Bain, Billboard, 23 Jan. 2025 For Butler and the Heat the relationship has devolved to the seeming point of cliche. Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 22 Jan. 2025
Verb
The most persuasive people are able to prove their point without seeming manipulative or ill-intended. Ashton Jackson, CNBC, 28 Dec. 2024 While seeming meager by today’s equipment standards, these supplies were critical for the volunteers. John Laycock, Baltimore Sun, 27 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for seeming
Recent Examples of Synonyms for seeming
Adjective
  • Elvia Anaya, administrative specialist at Omni Laundry, told Rivet that the upsides of producing in L.A. are readily apparent.
    Kate Nishimura, Sourcing Journal, 10 Mar. 2025
  • On a separate note, a major situation around fertility or a child could be apparent.
    Kyle Thomas, People.com, 9 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • The list of players who have gotten a lower contact rate on swing in the zone contains five closers with 17 All-Star appearances among them.
    Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Mar. 2025
  • That's right — Robert Redford made his first on-screen acting appearance in years on Dark Winds!
    Tommy McArdle, People.com, 10 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Gi-hun is followed back to the games by a Seoul police officer, Jun-ho (Wi Ha-joon), who is looking for his missing brother, In-ho.
    Kelly Lawler, USA TODAY, 24 Dec. 2024
  • In it, the singer-songwriter saunters in a polka-dot dress before the screen pans to a glamorous-looking Carey, who delivers a whistle note.
    Ilana Kaplan, People.com, 24 Dec. 2024
Noun
  • The entire family had smiles on their faces for the cute moment.
    Brenton Blanchet, People.com, 16 Mar. 2025
  • Well, she's got a mark on her face … Chris Prichard was arrested and charged with domestic assault.
    Jonathan Vigliotti, CBS News, 16 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Wind gusts of up to 60 mph are also possible and could reduce visibility to a quarter mile or less for large parts of the day making travel difficult or even impossible in some areas.
    Kenton Gewecke, ABC News, 18 Mar. 2025
  • As for the future of the show, Barbato and Bailey say anything is possible, including a potential second show and a Broadway expansion.
    Lawrence Yee, People.com, 18 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Related Articles Asking Eric: Fairytale engagement sours friendship Asking Eric: Niece’s visit tests generosity Now, Bob may be working under the impression that this is just how your friendship works.
    R. Eric Thomas, The Denver Post, 13 Mar. 2025
  • It’s been six years since Leaving Neverland left an indelible impression on Michael Jackson’s legacy.
    Jake Kanter, Deadline, 13 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • The impetus behind the spending boost—hundreds of billions of dollars in two separate packages—is obvious.
    David Axe, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025
  • Porsha’s very obvious absence.m As the party moves outside for the big surprise, Shamea gets the ultimate birthday flex—a Rolls-Royce Cullinan.
    Shelby Stewart, Essence, 18 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • In California, after mandatory-arrest laws went into effect, arrests of men increased by sixty per cent; arrests of women increased by four hundred per cent.
    Sarah Lustbader, The New Yorker, 9 Mar. 2025
  • The Chinese tariff commission said these are in response to Canada’s 100% tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and 25% tariff on Chinese steel and aluminum that went into effect last fall.
    Zach LaChance, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 9 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Seeming.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/seeming. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.

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