Purple Level

Lesson Twenty-one

Seem

seem / seemed / seemed / seeming

 

The verb "seem" is similar to "be." Use "seem" for opinions, impressions, and observations. Someone sees or hears something and then forms an idea. "Seem" is also similar to verbs such as "look," "feel," and "appear."

1. He seems thirsty.

He seems to be thirsty.

Is he hungry? I’m not sure, but that is my impression. That’s my idea.

baby

2. Those clouds seem to be moving our way.

clouds

3. He seemed like an honest person, but then we found out he wasn’t.

man

4. They seem to be very happy.

(Notice that the infinitive "to be" often comes after "seem.")

couple

5. This old computer doesn’t seem to be working properly.

(The verb "seem" is often used with a negative.)

computer

6. These shoes don’t seem to fit. They’re a little too small.

shoes

7. My guitar seems out of tune.

guitar

8. Life in the United States will probably seem a little strange to you at first, but you’ll get used to it.

(The verb "seem" is in the simple form following the modal verb "will.")

american flag

9. Using U.S. currency might seem confusing at first, but after awhile you’ll learn what things are worth.

money

 

seem
present tense: seem / seems
past tense: seemed
future: will seem
present continuous: no
past continuous: no
future continuous: no
present perfect: has / have seemed
past perfect: had seemed
future perfect: will have seemed
present perfect continuous: no
past perfect continuous: no
future perfect continuous: no
modal verbs: ______ seem
past tense modal: ______ have seemed
infinitive: to seem
gerund: seeming
passive: no

 

Next: Lesson Twenty-two

the verb "let"