English–German

“seem” in German

German

Alsoscheinen

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈvɪɐ̯kən/

Example

Er wirkt müde.

He seems tired.

Illustration for wirken (seem)

How to say “seem” in German

“Seem” in German is wirken.

Something leaves a mark on its surroundings, whether through practical force or the impression it gives.

Full entry for wirken: usage tips, similar words and word origin

Example sentences with wirken

Sein Lächeln wirkt freundlich.

His smile seems friendly.

Tips for using wirken

  • The affected person or thing can follow auf, as in Das wirkt auf mich beruhigend, meaning that it has a calming effect on that person.

Other German words for “seem”

Er scheint freundlich.

He seems friendly.

“seem” in other languages