seem

English grammar questions, answered by Alan

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hanuman_2000
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seem

Post by hanuman_2000 »

Sir,


1.He seems happy.

2. He seems to be happy.


Some time I come across "seem" without "to be" while other only "seem" with "to be".

Which one is used at what condition?

Thanks.
hanuman_2000
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Post by hanuman_2000 »

sir,

Please make it clear.
Thanks.
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Alan
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Post by Alan »

The infinitive 'be' is often ellipted before an adjective. Before a noun, however, it is usually retained, and often necessary, thus

He seems TO BE a teacher

, and not

*He seems a teacher.

The safe practice for a learner, therefore, would be to include the infinitive at all times.
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