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"Look like" is a transitive verb phrase which is often translated as "parecerse a", and "appear to be" is an intransitive verb phrase which is often translated as "parecer ser". Learn more about the difference between "look like" and "appear to be" below.
look like(
look
layk
)A transitive verb phrase is a phrase that combines a verb with a preposition or other particle and requires a direct object (e.g., take out the trash.).
a. ser físicamente
What does her sister look like? Is she blonde like her?¿Cómo es su hermana físicamente? ¿Es rubia como ella?
b. parecer
Are we spending the night here? - It looks like it.¿Vamos a pasar aquí la noche? - Eso parece.
appear to be(
uh
-
pir
tu
bi
)An intransitive verb phrase is a phrase that combines a verb with a preposition or other particle and does not require a direct object (e.g., Everybody please stand up.).
1. (general)
a. parecer ser
This painting appears to be a fake. We need to ask an expert.Este cuadro parece ser una falsificación. Tenemos que consultar con un experto.
