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can't seem to

Idioms

Be apparently unable to, as in No matter how hard I try, I can't seem to concentrate on this book. This phrase gives added emphasis to a negative statement, as in the example. [Late 1800s]

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Nvidia just can’t seem to impress the market any more.

From Barron's • Mar. 27, 2026

Crude-oil prices haven’t been this volatile in years — and individual investors can’t seem to get enough.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 11, 2026

Theo tries his best to be a sensitive and supportive husband, but Sally can’t seem to get what she needs from him.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 14, 2026

One factor: Cyber companies can’t seem to stop saying “artificial intelligence” in their marketing materials but real-world AI successes by corporate cybersecurity chiefs are far rarer.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 9, 2026

I can’t seem to hear him fully even though he’s standing right in front of me.

From "Clairboyance" by Kristiana Kahakauwila

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023