The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word SEEMING
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
S
E
E
M
I
N
G
Buddy explains!

The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does SEEMING mean?
SEEMING verb- To appear; to look outwardly; to be perceived as.
- To befit; to beseem.
- Outward appearance.
- Apprehension; judgement.
- Appearing to the eye or mind (distinguished from, and often opposed to, real or actual).