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Appear

Appear can be used as a copular verb. It is used to say how things look. It is used in similar ways to seem.

  • She appeared mighty pleased.
  • He appears (to be) angry today.
  • They do not appear to be happy.
  • There appears to be some misunderstanding between them.
  • The thieves appear to have left the city.

When appear is used as a copular verb, it is followed by an adjective, not an adverb.

  • She appears to be angry. (NOT angrily)

Appear can also be used as a non-copular verb. It then means 'come into sight', or 'arrive'. In this case it is used with an adverb, not an adjective.

  • She suddenly appeared in the doorway.

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