How to Say "it seemed" in Spanish
The Spanish word for “it seemed” is “pareció” — A2 level. This is a very common word in everyday Spanish.
Examples
La película no le pareció muy interesante a mi hermano.
The movie didn't seem very interesting to my brother.
¿Qué te pareció la cena anoche? Estaba deliciosa.
What did you think of the dinner last night? It was delicious.
Cuando lo vi, me pareció que estaba enfermo.
When I saw him, it seemed to me that he was sick.
Using 'Pareció' for Past Impressions
Since 'pareció' is a single, completed action in the past, use it when describing a specific, immediate impression you had at one moment: 'Me pareció una broma' (It seemed like a joke to me).
The 'c' to 'zc' Change
The base verb 'parecer' is slightly irregular only in the 'yo' form of the present (parezco) and in the special forms used for wishes (subjunctive). But 'pareció' (simple past) is regular.
Confusing Simple Past (Preterite) and Imperfect
Mistake: “Using 'parecía' when you mean 'pareció.'”
Correction: Use 'pareció' (simple past) for a specific, quick moment of realization ('It seemed good when I first saw it'). Use 'parecía' (imperfect) for a continuous or habitual feeling ('It always seemed good').
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