Have you ever written a sentence and wondered, “Should it be seems or seams?” You are not alone. These words sound the same but have completely different meanings. Using the wrong one can make your sentence confusing or unprofessional.
For example:
- ❌ It seams correct.
- ✅ It seems correct.
This guide will help you understand the difference, use the correct word every time, and avoid embarrassing mistakes in emails, essays, blogs, or professional writing.
Seems or Seams
- Seems → Verb → appears, looks like, seems to be
- Seams → Noun → stitched lines joining fabric
Examples
Seems
- She seems happy today.
- It seems like the weather will change.
- This solution seems practical.
Seams
- The seams of the jacket are reinforced.
- Check the shoulder seams before washing.
- Strong seams improve garment durability.
Memory Tip:
- Replace with “appears” → seems
- Talking about clothes or stitching → seams
The Origin of Seems and Seams
Seems
- From Old Norse “soema”, meaning to appear fitting or appropriate
- Entered Middle English → now expresses perception, appearance, or opinion
- Seems is a linking verb, connecting subject to adjective or clause
Example:
- She seems tired.
- It seems that he forgot the meeting.
Seams
- From Old English “seam”, meaning stitched line joining fabric
- Singular → seam
- Plural → seams
- Physical object → used in clothing, textiles, sewing
Example:
- The seams of the dress are strong.
- Check the jacket seams before washing.
British English vs American English: Seems vs Seams
Many learners wonder if seems and seams are spelled differently in British English (BrE) and American English (AmE). The answer: the spelling is exactly the same in both.
Usage Examples
Seems
- BrE: It seems to me that the results are accurate.
- AmE: It seems like the results are accurate.
Seams
- BrE: The seams of the coat are reinforced.
- AmE: The seams of the jacket are reinforced.
Note: BrE sometimes prefers “It seems to me…” while AmE often uses “It seems like…”.
Quick Comparison Table
| Word | BrE Example | AmE Example |
|---|---|---|
| Seems | It seems to me correct. | It seems like a good idea. |
| Seams | The seams of the coat are strong. | The seams of the jacket are reinforced. |
Which Word Should You Use?
Use Seems When:
- Expressing opinion or perception
- Writing emails, blogs, or essays
- Reporting uncertainty
- Academic or professional writing
Example:
It seems like more research is needed.
Use Seams When:
- Talking about clothing or textiles
- Writing fashion guides or DIY articles
- Explaining garment construction
Example:
The seams of the jacket are reinforced for durability.
Audience Table
| Audience | Correct Usage |
|---|---|
| Students | Use context rule |
| Bloggers | “Seems” for ideas, “seams” for fashion |
| Academic Writers | “Seems” for observations |
| Fashion Industry | “Seams” for garments |
Divine vs Devine: Why One Form Is Incorrect
Grammar Rules Explained
Is “Seems” Correct?
Yes, it is a third-person singular verb and widely used.
Example:
- He seems confident.
- It seems reasonable.
What Does “It Seems” Mean?
- Expresses appearance or impression
- Does not confirm certainty
Example:
- It seems that the package is delayed.
“Seems Like” Usage
- It seems like rain.
- It seems like a good plan.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
❌ Incorrect:
- It seams correct.
- She seams tired.
- The shirt seems are loose.
✅ Correct:
- It seems correct.
- She seems tired.
- The shirt seams are loose.
Memory Trick:
- Seams → clothing → “ea” like jeans
- Seems → appearance or opinion
Real-Life Examples
Emails:
- It seems we need more time to finish the project.
- It seems like the data is incomplete.
News Articles:
- It seems the economy is recovering faster than expected.
Social Media:
- It seems like everyone is on vacation this week!
Fashion Context:
- The seams of the jacket are reinforced.
- Strong seams prevent tearing during washing.
Advanced Example:
It seems that, despite projections, consumer confidence remained high.
Seam vs Sew – Related Words
- Sew → Verb → action of stitching
- Seam → Noun → result of sewing
- Seams → Plural noun
Example:
- I sew the fabric carefully.
- The seam is sturdy.
- The seams are straight and reinforced.
Worksheet Practice
- It _____ like a good plan.
- The dress has beautiful _____.
- She _____ happy today.
- The shoulder _____ are weak.
Answers: 1. seems | 2. seams | 3. seems | 4. seams
Google Trends & Search Data
- Seems → High searches globally (ESL, academic, casual writing)
- Seams → Mainly searched for sewing, tailoring, fashion
- “Seems like” → Popular in social media and casual conversation
Top Searching Countries: US, UK, India, Pakistan, Philippines
Reference: Google Trends (https://trends.google.com)
Comparison Table
| Feature | Seems | Seams |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Verb | Noun |
| Meaning | Appears, seems | Stitch line, join |
| Grammar | Linking verb | Countable noun |
| Usage | Opinion, perception | Clothing, sewing |
| Example | It seems fine. | The seams ripped. |
FAQs
1. What is the difference between seems and seams?
- Seems → Verb → appears or looks like
- Seams → Noun → stitched lines in fabric
2. Can “seems like” be used in formal writing?
Yes, it is widely accepted in emails, blogs, essays, and professional writing.
3. Why do people confuse these words?
Because they are homophones – they sound the same but mean different things. Context is key.
4. Can seams be used as a verb?
No, the verb form is “sew”. Seams is always a noun.
5. Is “it seems” correct?
Yes. It expresses appearance or opinion.
- Example: It seems that the results are accurate. ✅
6. Which word is more common?
Seems is more commonly used in general writing, emails, blogs, and social media.
7. How can I easily remember the difference?
- Seams → clothing/fabric → “ea” like jeans
- Seems → appearance/opinion → can replace with appears
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between seems and seams is simple but important.
- Seems → Verb → expresses appearance, opinion, or perception. Use it when describing how something looks or feels.
- Seams → Noun → refers to stitched lines in clothing or fabric. Use it when talking about garments, sewing, or tailoring.
How to Remember:
- Replace seems with appears to check correctness.
- Think “clothing/fabric?” → use seams.
- Always consider context before writing.
By following these rules, you can confidently write emails, blogs, essays, and professional documents without mistakes. Correct usage improves clarity, professionalism, and credibility. From casual writing to formal reports, you now have the knowledge to choose the right word every time — never confuse seems and seams again.
Scott Thornbury is a respected English language educator and author, known for practical grammar insights, teacher training, and clear learner-focused explanations.
