General alternatives:
* Seems - Implies a possibility or a less certain conclusion.
* Looks - Emphasizes visual appearance.
* Shows - Indicates something is revealed or made clear.
* Comes across - Suggests a particular impression is given.
* Presents - Implies something is formally offered for consideration.
* Emerges - Suggests something is becoming visible or known.
* Becomes visible - Emphasizes the physical act of becoming noticeable.
Alternatives depending on context:
* Arises - For something coming into existence or becoming important.
* Manifests - For something becoming evident or real.
* Materializes - For something becoming physically present or taking shape.
* Conjures up - For something being created or imagined.
* Resembles - For something looking like something else.
* Suggests - For something hinting at a particular idea or conclusion.
* Implies - For something indirectly suggesting something else.
Examples:
* He appears to be tired. (Could be replaced with "He seems tired.")
* The sun appears over the horizon. (Could be replaced with "The sun rises over the horizon.")
* The data appears to support our hypothesis. (Could be replaced with "The data shows support for our hypothesis.")
* The new CEO appears to be a strong leader. (Could be replaced with "The new CEO comes across as a strong leader.")
Ultimately, the best alternative depends on the specific context and the desired nuance.