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Yiduo Posted 13 years ago
Grammar
appear to
Hello,
He appeared to read a book when I entered the room.
He appeared to be reading a book when I entered the room.
Can they both be possible expressions? Could you tell me the differences? Thanks.
He appeared to read a book when I entered the room.
He appeared to be reading a book when I entered the room.
Can they both be possible expressions? Could you tell me the differences? Thanks.
Top answer
Only the second is correct.
- Only the second is correct.
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3 Answers
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yiduoCan they both be possible expressions?No, because 'to read a book' is an accomplishment. You need an -ing form to indicate an activity (as long as the verb allows -ing forms). The opening of the sentence "He appeared to ... " only makes sense with an activity or a state. That's the nature of appearances. 'to appear to' can't comfortably
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