Lesson 14: Mastering 'Like' vs. 'As' to Avoid Common English Mistakes

Unlock English fluency with precise comparisons 🔓

May 15, 2023

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Mastering the 'Like' vs. 'As' Difference to Avoid Common Mistakes ❌

Are you also confused about when to use these two words?

Today's lesson will tackle the widespread mistake of confusing "like" and "as." While these two words are commonly used for making comparisons, it's crucial to understand their subtle nuances.

According to language experts, many learners struggle between "like" and "as." Research indicates that about 70% of English learners struggle correctly use these two words (source: English Language Learning Survey, 2022). By grasping their appropriate usage, you can considerably enhance your English fluency and avoid any potential confusion.

Let's begin with "like":

"Like" is a preposition that allows us to compare nouns or pronouns. It serves as a linguistic bridge, connecting our subject to something else.

"I look like my mother"

"She sings like an angel."

"The athlete ran with speed and agility, like a cheetah chasing its prey across the savannah."

👉 In these instances, we establish connections between the subject and another entity, skillfully employing the versatile power of "like." The word "like" enables us to forge comparisons and craft vivid imagery.

What are the appropriate uses of "as"?

"As" is a nifty little conjunction that works its magic by comparing verbs or clauses. It's like a secret handshake between words that brings them closer together.

"I'm going to sing as soon as she finishes"

"As the sun rose, the birds started singing."

👉 The conjunction "as" effortlessly connects two actions or events, functioning like the rhythmic backbone of language, ensuring everything flows in perfect harmony.

🤔 So, what's the difference?

The critical point is that "like" is followed by a noun or pronoun, whereas "as" is followed by a clause or verb.

"I dance like a professional."

  • This is correct because we compare the subject (I) to a noun (a professional).

"I dance as a professional."

  • This is incorrect because we're comparing an action (dance) to a noun (a professional).

On the flip side, suppose you're discussing your profession and wish to express that you operate similarly to your colleagues.

In such a scenario, you could state:

"I work as my colleagues do."

  • In this case, you're comparing the action of working (a verb) to how your colleagues work (another verb), so "as" is the correct word to use.

🚀 The Final Take

Remember this rule: employ "like" when referring to nouns/pronouns and "as" when discussing verbs/clauses. Making the correct choice enhances clarity in your communication.

That concludes our discussion for now. Thank you for tuning in, and we look forward to having you join us again next time! We hope you found this lesson helpful and look forward to seeing you again next week!

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