Like And As: Understanding The Difference (Easy Grammar Lesson Explanation)

Introduction

Understanding the nuanced differences between “like and as” is crucial for effective English communication. These two words, while often used interchangeably, serve distinct purposes in various contexts. Let’s delve deeper into their divergent roles to enhance your grasp on their usage.

What Is The Difference Between Like and As

“Like” and “as” function as prepositions or conjunctions. As a preposition, “like” is used to compare things or people as in “she treats him like a mother.” “As” may be also used as a preposition for comparisons as in “As a mother, I understand your concerns.” Like and as may also function as conjunctions. In this case, they can be interchangeably used as in “No one can understand her like her mother does” or “No one can understand her as her mother does,” with the last example being more formal.

Now, let’s look at the “like and as” difference in more detail:

As and like As Prepositions:

One primary function of “as” is as a preposition, often used when referring to a job or function. Consider these examples:

I worked as a taxi driver.
He was nominated as the Secretary of State.
The wind can be used as a source of energy.

In these instances, “as” establishes a connection between the subject and their role or function.

“Like” is used to compare two things or when we want to draw parallels in terms of appearance or behavior.

For example:

She’s got five brothers like me. (Correct)
~~She’s got five brothers as me~~. (Incorrect)
I, like you, consider the decision to declare war against our enemies now to be foolish. (Correct)
~~I, as you, consider the decision to declare war against our enemies now to be foolish~~. (Incorrect)
That man looks like a monster. (Correct)
~~That man looks as a monster.~~ (Incorrect)

Here are more examples with like as a preposition:

He has been working like a dog.
I am like my mother; I hate waiting.
He looks like his father.
She runs like the wind.
The situation is like a ticking time bomb.
His laughter is like a contagious melody.
The new employee works like a dedicated professional.
The old house smells like a mixture of nostalgia and dust.
The dress fits like a glove.
Her eyes sparkle like diamonds.
The child talks like a little philosopher.
The garden looks like a vibrant canvas of colors.
The mountain range stands tall like a natural fortress.

“As and Like” As Conjunctions

The Cambridge guidelines state that the conjunctions “as” and “like” have the same meaning and can be used interchangeably, with “like” being a bit more informal:

Nobody understands him as I do. (Correct)
Nobody understands him like I do. (Correct)

This confirms that, in the context of comparisons, either “as” or “like” can be used, with “like” carrying a slightly informal tone.

NOTE: The Grammarly website, states that the use of “like” as a conjunction in examples like “he can’t play cricket like he used to,” is not acceptable. However, you will be surprised to hear a native speaker, in informal speech or writing, use like as a conjunction as in “it seems like she will get married soon,” or “Like I said before, research corroborates my findings.”

Like is also often used in place of the subordinating conjunction as, or as if.

Examples:

They look like they have been having fun. = They look as if they have been having fun.

“As” also serves as a conjunction, implying ‘in the same way that.’ Observe its use in the following sentences:

She behaved exactly as her mother told her.
When in Rome, do as the Romans do.

Here, “as” draws a parallel between actions or behaviors, emphasizing similarity.

Understanding the Grey Area: Like vs. As

While “like” is sometimes used interchangeably with “as”, it’s important to note that this interchangeability may involve a change of meaning. Consider the example:

As your teacher, I will help you as much as I can. (I am your teacher.)
Like your teacher, I will help you as much as I can. (I compare myself to your teacher, but I am not your teacher.)

In the above example sentences, “like” seamlessly replaces “as,” but involves a change in meaning. In the first example, the speaker is the listener’s teacher while in the second example, the speaker is comparing himself to the listener’s teacher.

Here are more examples like the one above:

Example 1
- She acts as a mentor to her colleagues.
- She acts like a mentor to her colleagues.
Example 2:
- I comprehend this matter as your advisor.
- I comprehend this matter like your advisor.
Example 3:
- He talks as an expert in alternative energy.
- He talks like an expert in alternative energy.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

In conclusion, mastering the distinctions between “like and as” is crucial for precise English communication. Here are the key takeaways:

The versatility of “Like” and “As”: Both “like” and “as” function as prepositions and conjunctions, showcasing their versatility in various linguistic roles.
Comparisons with “Like”: “Like” is the preferred choice when making comparisons, indicating similarity or drawing parallels in appearance, behavior, or quantity.
Functions of “As”: “As” shines as a preposition when highlighting jobs or functions and as a conjunction, indicating actions or behaviors in the same way.
Interchangeability: Cambridge guidelines suggest that “as” and “like” can be used interchangeably in certain contexts, with “like” carrying a slightly informal tone.
Contextual Nuances: Careful attention to context is crucial. The interchangeability of “like” and “as” may involve a subtle change in meaning, necessitating precision in usage.
Grey Areas: Be mindful of grey areas where the interchangeability may not hold universally. Contextual awareness is key, especially in nuanced comparisons.
Awareness of Informal Usage: Informal speech or writing may deviate from formal grammar rules. Native speakers often use “like” as a conjunction despite formal guidelines.

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Like Vs As

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