Looking up...
it appears
/ɪt əˈpɪrz/
seems to be the case
It appears that the meeting has been canceled due to the storm.
The speaker suggests that the meeting cancellation is likely because of the storm.
neutral
used to indicate that something seems to be true or the case, often with some uncertainty
It appears that the document was signed yesterday.
The speaker suggests the document was likely signed yesterday, but this is not confirmed.
From the data, it appears the project will finish on time.
The data suggests the project is likely to meet its deadline.
Often used in formal or written contexts to express a tentative conclusion. Can imply a lack of complete certainty.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Use in formal contexts
Prefer 'it appears' in academic, legal, or professional writing to express a tentative conclusion. Avoid it in contexts where absolute certainty is required.
Gold Rule
Avoid overusing
While 'it appears' is useful for hedging statements, overusing it can make your writing sound uncertain or hesitant. Balance it with more definitive language when appropriate.
Word Origin
Combination of the pronoun 'it' and the verb 'appears' (from Latin 'apparere', meaning 'to appear'). The phrase has been in use in English since the 16th century.
Usage Notes
This phrase is often used in formal writing or speech to introduce a conclusion that is based on evidence but not definitively proven. It softens the statement, making it less assertive than 'it is' or 'it must be'. In casual speech, 'it seems' or 'it looks like' are more common.
Word Breakdown
it
third-person singular pronoun referring to a situation or fact
pronounappears
seems or looks to be the case
verbEnglish Dictionary