parecen
“parecen” means “seem” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
seem, appear
Also: look
📝 In Action
Los turistas parecen cansados después de caminar tanto.
A1The tourists seem tired after walking so much.
Esas ideas parecen muy buenas para el proyecto.
A2Those ideas appear very good for the project.
Ustedes parecen muy contentos con el resultado.
A2You all seem very pleased with the result.
look like
Also: take after
📝 In Action
Dicen que sus hijos parecen a la abuela.
B1They say that their children look like their grandmother.
Estas casas nuevas parecen a las de hace veinte años.
B2These new houses look like the ones from twenty years ago.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: parecen
Question 1 of 2
Which sentence uses 'parecen' to mean 'to resemble' (look like)?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The verb 'parecer' comes from the Latin verb *parescere*, meaning 'to become visible' or 'to appear.' It is closely related to the idea of showing an outward form or appearance.
First recorded: Old Spanish (circa 13th century)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the 'yo' form of the base verb 'parecer' so different (parezco)?
This is a common pattern for verbs ending in -ecer, -ucir, and -ocer in Spanish. To keep the sound consistent, the 'c' changes to 'zc' before an 'o' in the 'yo' form. 'Parecen' doesn't need this change because it's the plural form.
When should I use 'parecen' instead of 'creo que son' (I think they are)?
'Parecen' is better when you are describing a visual impression, how something looks externally ('They look tired'). 'Creo que son' is better for expressing a personal belief or judgment that is less reliant on appearance ('I think they are smart').