I'm learning español

parece — meaning in English: It seems

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for It seems
más
tras
parece
nosotros
encima
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Spanish for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
neutral very common
Usage
Native speakers commonly use 'parece' in casual conversations when sharing opinions or impressions. For instance, a friend might say, 'Parece que va a llover,' when looking at dark clouds, indicating a personal observation rather than a certainty.
Synonyms & nuances
'Parece' can be similar to 'se ve' (it looks) and 'aparenta' (it appears), but 'parece' leans more toward subjective impressions. Use 'parece' when you want to convey your personal interpretation of a situation, while 'se ve' may emphasize a more objective observation.
Culture
'Parece' comes from the Latin word 'videre', which means 'to see'. This connection highlights how our perceptions shape our reality. In many Spanish-speaking cultures, expressing what something seems like can be a way to engage in polite conversation, making it a valuable tool for social interactions.
FAQ
Q.What does 'parece' mean in English?
'Parece' translates to 'it seems' in English, conveying uncertainty or personal impressions about a situation.
Q.How do you use 'parece' in a sentence?
You can use 'parece' in a sentence like this: 'Parece que ella está feliz,' which means 'It seems that she is happy.' It's often followed by a clause that explains what seems to be the case.
Q.Can 'parece' be used in the past tense?
Yes, you can use 'pareció' for past situations. For example, 'Pareció que iba a llover,' means 'It seemed that it was going to rain.' This indicates a past impression.
Learn spanish with Maspeak →
Spanish 1000