seeming 1 of 3

seeming

2 of 3

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
Many pro-Trump voices seem to have taken the bait with a seeming lack of self-awareness. Steven Greenhut, Oc Register, 22 Aug. 2025 From here, trees and water stretched out into a seeming infinity of greens and blues. Marc Berman august 15, Literary Hub, 15 Aug. 2025
Noun
But the international order that the United States and its allies created out of the ashes of World War II prevented that seeming inevitability. Kori Schake, Foreign Affairs, 24 June 2025 Yet another wrinkle in Trump’s approach is his seeming split with his director of national intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, on the question of whether Iran is actively seeking a nuclear weapon. Niall Stanage, The Hill, 21 June 2025
Verb
The work is still long and detailed, but Vance’s pace and tone keep it from seeming tedious. Audiofile Magazine august 29, Literary Hub, 29 Aug. 2025 This self-protective habit can leave you struggling and the relationship seeming unbalanced and isolating for both partners. Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for seeming
Recent Examples of Synonyms for seeming
Adjective
  • The second series investigates deaths involving apparent falls from heights — examining whether victims were pushed from locations like balconies, cliffs and bridges.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 5 Sep. 2025
  • The consequences of the current fracturing may not be apparent right away.
    Katherine J. Wu, The Atlantic, 5 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Those born just afterwards — Steve McManaman, Darren Anderton (both 1972), Jamie Redknapp (1973) — made 37, 30 and 17 international appearances respectively, much fewer than their talent would have suggested, for various reasons.
    Michael Cox, New York Times, 6 Sep. 2025
  • While more research needs to be conducted, a promising clinical study found that participants who took a specific soluble keratin supplement for three months strengthened and improved the appearance of their nails.
    Brianna Peters, Vogue, 6 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • The Royals were looking to add to their lead after another stop, but Landon Dressell intercepted a Richland pass and returned it to the Royals’ 4-yard line.
    Jordan Neal, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 6 Sep. 2025
  • Zaldivar said in an age where more people are turning away from their faith, the declaration of the young saints is inspiring to many Catholics looking towards the future of the church.
    Lauren Costantino September 6, Miami Herald, 6 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The presumed reasoning behind why the film was ignored is multilayered.
    Marcus Jones, IndieWire, 8 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • Not knowing much about the condition, Mares-Sedillo worried that her face would be permanently altered.
    Meredith Wilshere, PEOPLE, 7 Sep. 2025
  • Travis Kelce got right in Jawaan Taylor's face after his second false start of the game.
    Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 6 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • This type of bag will keep your essentials close without feeling bulky.
    Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 9 Sep. 2025
  • The jeans have a draping effect without feeling bulky, and the high-rise fit helps keep my shape cinched in.
    Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 9 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • This storm may intensify, so be certain to monitor local radio stations and available television stations for additional information and possible warnings from the National Weather Service.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 5 Sep. 2025
  • Be sure to cover your head and neck with your arms, and crawl under a sturdy table if possible.
    CA Earthquake Bot, Sacbee.com, 5 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • These aren't just impressions—they're experiences that drive immediate conversion while building brand affinity.
    Kiri Masters, Forbes.com, 2 Sep. 2025
  • Unsurprisingly, the impression left by Karl is an overwhelmingly positive one, generous with praise and ginger with criticism.
    Angie Han, HollywoodReporter, 2 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Seeming.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/seeming. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

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