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Like or As

"Like" is used to compare similarities between two things, showing that they share characteristics, while "as" is used to compare actions or roles, indicating that something functions in the same manner as another.

Understanding the Basics

Definition and Primary Uses of "Like"

"Like" is a preposition used to compare similarities between two entities. It implies resemblance or similarity without being exact.

Examples:

  1. She sings like an angel.

  2. The car runs like new.

  3. He looks like his father.

Definition and Primary Uses of "As"

"As" is a conjunction used to compare actions or roles, indicating equivalence or function. It suggests that something acts in the same way or to the same extent as something else.

Examples:

  1. He works as a teacher.

  2. She sings as beautifully as her sister.

  3. Use this tool as you would a hammer.

Using "Like" in Comparisons

Explanation of "Like" to Compare Similarities

Use "like" when you want to highlight similarities between two things. It shows that two subjects share characteristics.

Rules:

  • Use "like" to compare nouns or pronouns.

  • "Like" should be followed by a noun or pronoun.

Examples:

  1. She dances like a ballerina.

  2. He drives like a professional racer.

  3. The house looks like a palace.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with "Like"

Avoid using "like" to introduce a clause. For example, avoid saying, "Like he said," instead say, "As he said."

Incorrect:

  1. Like I mentioned earlier, the meeting is at 3 PM.

Correct:

  1. As I mentioned earlier, the meeting is at 3 PM.

Practice Exercise: Rewrite the following sentences using "like":

  1. She sings (as/like) a professional.

  2. He runs (as/like) a cheetah.

  3. This tastes (as/like) homemade food.

Using "As" in Comparisons

Explanation of "As" to Compare Actions or Roles

Use "as" to compare actions or roles, indicating that something functions in the same manner.

Rules:

  • Use "as" to compare actions or roles.

  • "As" can introduce clauses or phrases.

Examples:

  1. He works as a consultant.

  2. She sings as well as her sister.

  3. Prepare the presentation as discussed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with "As"

Do not use "as" to compare nouns directly. For instance, do not say, "He is as his brother," instead say, "He is like his brother."

Incorrect:

  1. He is as a doctor.

Correct:

  1. He works as a doctor.

Practice Exercise: Rewrite the following sentences using "as":

  1. She is (as/like) intelligent as her brother.

  2. We acted (as/like) per the instructions.

  3. The plan worked out (as/like) expected.

Key Differences Between "Like" and "As"

Situations Where "Like" is Appropriate Versus When "As" is Necessary

"Like" is suitable for comparing nouns, while "as" is used for comparing actions or roles.

Side-by-Side Examples Highlighting the Differences

  1. She dances like a professional. (Comparison of similarity)

  2. She dances as a professional would. (Comparison of action)

  3. It feels like summer. (Comparison of similarity)

  4. It feels as it did last summer. (Comparison of action)

Tips to Remember the Correct Usage

  • Use "like" to compare nouns and show similarities.

  • Use "as" to compare actions or roles and indicate how something is done.

Additional Examples:

  1. "Like" - He eats like a horse. / She sings like a bird.

  2. "As" - Do it as I showed you. / They worked as a team.

Practice Exercise: Fill in the blanks with "like" or "as":

  1. He behaves ___ his father.

  2. They acted ___ if they knew everything.

  3. She cooks ___ a professional chef.

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