"which seems to be" vs "which seem to be"

Question

"which seems to be" vs "which seem to be"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Which seems to be' is correct when referring to a singular noun or a singular concept, while 'which seem to be' is correct when referring to plural nouns or concepts.

Last Updated: March 15, 2024

Use 'which seems to be' when the subject being referred to is singular.

Examples:

The solution, which seems to be the most effective, is to increase funding.
The book, which seems to be a bestseller, is flying off the shelves.

Alternatives:

which appears to be
which looks to be
which is likely to be
which is believed to be
which is thought to be

Use 'which seem to be' when the subject being referred to is plural.

Examples:

The results, which seem to be accurate, need to be verified.
The options, which seem to be endless, are overwhelming.

Alternatives:

which appear to be
which look to be
which are likely to be
which are believed to be
which are thought to be

Answer 1

which seems to be

This phrase is correct when referring to a singular noun or concept.

Answer 2

which seem to be

This phrase is correct when referring to plural nouns or concepts.

"which seems to be" vs "which seem to be"

which seems to be

which seem to be

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