seeming
/'si:miɳ/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: Having the appearance of being true or real, but not necessarily being so; apparent but possibly deceptive.
Usage
Used to describe something that gives a particular impression based on outward appearance, while suggesting that the reality may be different. It often modifies abstract nouns like honesty, simplicity, or indifference.
Examples
- His seeming indifference hid a deep concern for the outcome.
- She answered all questions with seeming confidence, though she was nervous inside.
- The seeming ease of the task proved to be misleading; it was actually quite complex.
- For all its seeming stability, the political situation was fragile.
Advanced Usage
- "For all (one's) seeming...": A phrase used to contrast an outward appearance with a contradictory reality.
- For all her seeming calm, she was panicking internally.
- "A/the seeming contradiction": Used to describe two things that appear to conflict but may be reconciled upon closer examination.
- The report pointed out a seeming contradiction in the witness statements.
Variants and Related Words
- Seemingly (adverb): According to the available evidence or outward appearance; apparently.
- The plan was seemingly perfect, but it failed due to unforeseen circumstances.
- Seem (verb): To give the impression of being; to appear.
- He seems tired today.
Synonyms
- Apparent: Clearly visible or understood; seeming.
- Ostensible: Stated or appearing to be true, but not necessarily so.
- Outward: Relating to the external appearance.
Related Phrases and Idioms
- All is not as it seems: A proverb meaning that appearances can be deceptive; the reality of a situation is different from how it looks.
- The house looked beautiful, but all was not as it seemed; the foundation was cracked.
Adjective
- appearing as such but not necessarily so
- for all his apparent wealth he had no money to pay the rent
- the committee investigated some apparent discrepancies
- the ostensible truth of their theories
- his seeming honesty