看似

• Pinyin: kàn sì
• Hanzi breakdown: 看 = to look; 似 = 亻(person) + 以 — to resemble, seem

Meaning

Seemingly; apparently; it looks like.

Indicates something appears to be a certain way but may not actually be so — often followed by 实则 (but actually) or 其实 (in fact). A useful transitional word for expressing contrasts. Collocates with 简单 (simple), 平静 (calm), 容易 (easy).

Examples

1. 这道题看似简单，实际上暗藏玄机，很多人都做错了。 This problem looks simple but actually hides complexities — many people got it wrong.
2. 他看似随和，其实心里有自己的主见。 He seems easygoing, but actually has his own strong opinions.
3. 这项投资看似稳赚不赔，但风险其实很高。 This investment seems like a sure win, but the risks are actually quite high.

Usage Guide

Context: analysis, writing, contrast

Tone: analytical

Do Say

• 看似容易实则难。(It looks easy but is actually hard.)
• 这看似是巧合。(This seems like a coincidence.)

Don't Say

• 他看似来了。(For simply stating someone appears to have arrived, use 好像 — 看似 is for setting up contrasts)

Origin & History

看 (to look) + 似 (to seem, resemble). To look like / it seems.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal