"they never seem to answer" vs "they seem never to answer"

Question

"they never seem to answer" vs "they seem never to answer"

Both phrases are correct and commonly used in English. They convey a similar meaning but with a slight difference in emphasis. The first phrase places more emphasis on the fact that answering is something they never do, while the second phrase emphasizes the fact that they never seem to do it.

Last Updated: March 17, 2024

This phrase is used to emphasize the fact that they never seem to answer. It conveys a sense of observation or perception.

Examples:

They never seem to answer the door when I knock.
He never seems to understand what I'm saying.

Alternatives:

they seem never to answer
they never answer

This phrase is used to emphasize the fact that answering is something they never do. It conveys a sense of surprise or disappointment.

Examples:

They seem never to answer my calls.
She seems never to listen to what I say.

Alternatives:

they never seem to answer
they never answer

Answer 1

they never seem to answer

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English. It emphasizes the fact that they never seem to answer.

Answer 2

they seem never to answer

This phrase is correct and can be used in English. It emphasizes the fact that answering is something they never do.

"they never seem to answer" vs "they seem never to answer"

they never seem to answer

they seem never to answer

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