Phrase guide

can't seem

verb · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

verb

Meaning 1

Seem to be unable; seem not to be able.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: no-past-participle, no-present-participle

Examples

  • I can't seem to lift the box alone. Would you give me a hand, please?

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see can't, seem.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: no-past-participle, no-present-participle

Examples

  • You can't seem bored when you're at a job interview. If you are bored, hide it!

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.