As vs. Like — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 17, 2024
"As" is used for roles and functions, indicating similarity or in the manner of something, while "like" is used for comparisons, showing resemblance or similarity.
Difference Between As and Like
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Key Differences
"As" often functions as a conjunction in sentences, introducing clauses that express function, role, or manner, such as in "She works as a teacher." Whereas "like" primarily serves as a preposition, used to compare similarities between entities, e.g., "He sings like a professional."
"As" is used to indicate time or during the occurrence of an event, for example, "As the day ended, we packed up." On the other hand, "like" does not convey a temporal aspect but focuses on illustrating similarities in characteristics or behaviors, such as in "quiet like a mouse.
"In formal writing, "as" can introduce examples or clarification, shown in expressions like "such as" or "as if," where it connects more complex ideas. In contrast, "like" is used more informally to introduce examples or hypothetical scenarios, e.g., "like when you go camping."
"As" is also used in similes but usually accompanies verbs to describe actions or states, as in "as quick as lightning." Whereas "like" in similes typically pairs with nouns or pronouns to describe resemblance, such as in "white like snow.
"When expressing functions or roles, "as" is indispensable, especially in formal contexts or specific idiomatic expressions, e.g., "He acted as mediator." While "like" would be inappropriate in these instances, it is preferred in casual contexts or spoken language for simpler comparisons, like "He acted like a mediator."
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Comparison Chart
Function
Conjunction, preposition
Preposition
Usage in Comparisons
Formal, roles/functions
Informal, resemblance
Examples
"As we see," "as a teacher"
"Like a professional," "like"
Temporal Usage
Yes (during events)
No
Common in
Formal writing, idiomatic roles
Spoken language, casual use
Compare with Definitions
As
Used to talk about the role or function of a person or thing.
He works as a consultant.
Like
To find something enjoyable or agreeable.
I like your new haircut.
As
To the same degree or amount.
As far as I know, she will arrive on time.
Like
Used to compare or show similarity.
She looks like her mother.
As
Used to indicate that something happens during the time when something is taking place.
As I was saying, we need a new plan.
Like
Used to express a hypothetical state.
It looks like it might rain.
As
Used to describe how something seems to be.
He looked as if he had seen a ghost.
Like
Introducing examples, less formally.
I love citrus fruits, like oranges and lemons.
As
Used to provide an example or introduce an example.
Bring something to write with, such as a pen or pencil.
Like
Used to create emphasis or explain.
It’s like, really hard to explain.
As
Used in comparisons to refer to the extent or degree of something
Go as fast as you can
It tasted like grape juice but not as sweet
Like
In English, the word like has a very flexible range of uses, ranging from conventional to non-standard. It can be used as a noun, verb, adverb, adjective, preposition, particle, conjunction, hedge, filler, and quotative.
As
Used to indicate that something happens during the time when something else is taking place
Frank watched him as he ambled through the crowd
As she grew older, she kept more to herself
Like
Having the same characteristics or qualities as; similar to
She looked nothing like Audrey Hepburn
He used to have a car like mine
They were like brothers
As
Used to indicate by comparison the way that something happens or is done
They can do as they wish
She kissed him goodbye, as usual
Like
Used to draw attention to the nature of an action or event
Why are you talking about me like that?
I apologize for coming over unannounced like this
As
Because; since
I must stop now as I have to go out
Like
Such as; for example
The cautionary vision of works like Animal Farm and 1984
As
Even though
Try as he might, he failed to pull it off
Sweet as he is, he doesn't pay his bills
Like
In the same way that; as
People who change countries like they change clothes
As
Used to refer to the function or character that someone or something has
She got a job as a cook
It came as a shock
Like
As though; as if
I felt like I'd been kicked by a camel
As
During the time of being (the thing specified)
He had often been ill as a child
Like
Used with reference to a person or thing of the same kind as another
The quotations could be arranged to put like with like
I know him—him and his like
As
An ancient Roman copper coin.
Like
The things one likes or prefers
A wide variety of likes, dislikes, tastes, and income levels
As
To the same extent or degree; equally
The child sang as sweetly as a nightingale.
Like
(of a person or thing) having similar qualities or characteristics to another person or thing
I responded in like manner
The grouping of children of like ability together
As
For instance
Large mammals, as the bear or lion.
Like
Used in speech as a meaningless filler or to signify the speaker's uncertainty about an expression just used
There was this funny smell—sort of dusty like
As
When taken into consideration in a specified relation or form
This definition as distinguished from the second one.
Like
Used to convey a person's reported attitude or feelings in the form of direct speech (whether or not representing an actual quotation)
So she comes into the room and she's like ‘Where is everybody?’
As
To the same degree or quantity that. Often used as a correlative after so or as
You are as sweet as sugar. The situation is not so bad as you suggest.
Like
In the manner of
Like as a ship with dreadful storm long tossed
As
In the same manner or way that
Think as I think.
Like
Find agreeable, enjoyable, or satisfactory
People who don't like reading books
All his classmates liked him
I like to be the centre of attention
As
At the same time that; while
Slipped on the ice as I ran home.
Like
Wish for; want
I'd like to hire a car
Would you like a cup of coffee?
I'd like you to stay
As
For the reason that; because
Went to bed early, as I was exhausted.
Like
To find pleasant or attractive; enjoy
Do you like ice cream? I like your style.
As
With the result that
He was so foolish as to lie.
Like
To want to have
I would like some coffee.
As
Though
Great as the author was, he proved a bad model. Ridiculous as it seems, the tale is true.
Like
To prefer
How would you like your coffee—with sugar or without?.
As
In accordance with which or with the way in which
The hotel is quite comfortable as such establishments go. The sun is hot, as everyone knows.
Like
To feel about; regard
How do you like these new theater seats?.
As
(Informal) That
I don't know as I can answer your question.
Like
To believe or predict that (a certain competitor) will win a contest
Which team do you like in tonight's game?.
As
In the role, capacity, or function of
Acting as a mediator.
Like
To perform well under (a given condition) or using (a given feature)
This car does not like cold weather. The engine does not like enriched fuel.
As
In a manner similar to; the same as
On this issue they thought as one.
Like
(Archaic) To be pleasing to.
As
An ancient Roman coin of copper or copper alloy.
Like
To have an inclination or a preference
If you like, we can meet you there.
As
An ancient Roman unit of weight equal to about one troy pound.
Like
(Scots) To be pleased.
As
To such an extent or degree; to the same extent or degree.
You’re not as tall as I am.
It's not as well made, but it's twice as expensive.
Like
Something that is liked; a preference
Made a list of his likes and dislikes.
As
Considered to be, in relation to something else; in the relation (specified).
Like
One similar to or like another. Used with the
Was subject to coughs, asthma, and the like.
As
(dated) For example; for instance. such as.}}
Like
Often likes(Informal) An equivalent or similar person or thing; an equal or match
I've never seen the likes of this before. We'll never see his like again.
As
; very much; extremely
Sweet as
Like
Possessing the characteristics of; resembling closely; similar to
Your house is like mine.
As
In the (same) way or manner that; to the (same) degree that.
Do as I say!
I'm under a lot of pressure, as you know.
As you wish, my lord!
The kidnappers released him as agreed.
Like
In the typical manner of
It's not like you to take offense.
As
So or as to introduce a comparison.}}
She's twice as strong as I was two years ago.
It's not so complicated as I expected.
Like
In the same way as
Lived like royalty.
As
With the result that it is.
Like
Inclined or disposed to
Felt like running away.
As
Though.
Like
As if the probability exists for
Looks like a bad year for farmers.
As
At the time that; during the time when:
Like
Such as; for example
Saved things like old newspapers and pieces of string.
As
At the same instant or moment that: when.
As I came in, she fled.
Like
Possessing the same or almost the same characteristics; similar
On this and like occasions.
As
At the same time that, during the same time when: while.
He sleeps as the rain falls.
Like
In the manner of being; as if. Used as an intensifier of action
Worked like hell.
Ran like crazy.
As
Varying through time in the same proportion that.
As my fear grew, so did my legs become heavy.
As she grew older, she grew wiser.
Like
(Informal) Probably; likely
Like as not she'll change her mind.
As
Being that, considering that, because, since.
As it’s too late, I quit.
Like
Nearly; approximately
The price is more like 1,000 dollars.
As
(dated) Introducing a comparison with a hypothetical state (+ subjunctive, or with the verb elided): as though, as if.
Like
(Nonstandard) Used to provide emphasis or to focus attention on something
Let's like talk about this for a minute. It's like so crowded you can't move.
As
(law) used before a preposition to clarify that the prepositional phrase restricts the meaning of the sentence; specifically.
Like
In the same way that; as
To dance like she does requires great discipline.
As
That, which, who. See usage notes.
He had the same problem as she did getting the lock open.
Like
As if
It looks like we'll finish on time.
As
Than.
Like
To enjoy, be pleased by; favor; be in favor of.
I like hamburgers.
I like skiing in winter.
I like the Seattle Mariners this season.
As
In the role of.
What is your opinion as a parent?
He was never seen as the boss, but rather as a friend.
Like
To please.
As
By way of
I bought you a new toy as a special treat.
Like
(obsolete) To derive pleasure of, by or with someone or something.
As
(unit of weight) A libra.
Like
To prefer and maintain (an action) as a regular habit or activity.
I like to go to the dentist every six months.
She likes to keep herself physically fit.
We like to keep one around the office just in case.
As
Any of several coins of Rome, coined in bronze or later copper; or the equivalent value.
Like
(obsolete) To have an appearance or expression; to look; to seem to be (in a specified condition).
As
(rare) a's.
Like
(archaic) To come near; to avoid with difficulty; to escape narrowly.
He liked to have been too late.
As
Denoting equality or likeness in kind, degree, or manner; like; similar to; in the same manner with or in which; in accordance with; in proportion to; to the extent or degree in which or to which; equally; no less than; as, ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil; you will reap as you sow; do as you are bidden.
His spiritual attendants adjured him, as he loved his soul, to emancipate his brethren.
Like
To find attractive; to prefer the company of; to have mild romantic feelings for.
I really like Sandra but don't know how to tell her.
As
In the idea, character, or condition of, - limiting the view to certain attributes or relations; as, virtue considered as virtue; this actor will appear as Hamlet.
The beggar is greater as a man, than is the man merely as a king.
Like
(obsolete) To liken; to compare.
As
While; during or at the same time that; when; as, he trembled as he spoke.
As I return I will fetch off these justices.
Like
To show support for, or approval of, something posted on the Internet by marking it with a vote.
I liked my friend's last status on Facebook.
I can't stand Bloggs' tomato ketchup, but I liked it on Facebook so I could enter a competition.
As
Because; since; it being the case that.
As the population of Scotland had been generally trained to arms . . . they were not indifferently prepared.
Like
(with 'would' and in certain other phrases) To want, desire. See also would like.
Would you like a cigarette?
We could go to the museum if you like.
I don't like to disturb him when he's working.
As
Expressing concession. (Often approaching though in meaning).
We wish, however, to avail ourselves of the interest, transient as it may be, which this work has excited.
Like
To accept as an input.
We were frustrated that our seeming innocent choice for a team name was rejected by the censor. Apparently somewhere in the name is a word that the censor doesn’t like.
As
That, introducing or expressing a result or consequence, after the correlatives so and such.
I can place thee in such abject state, as help shall never find thee.
The relations are so uncertain as they require a great deal of examination.
Like
To be likely.
As
As if; as though.
He lies, as he his bliss did know.
Like
Something that a person likes (prefers).
Tell me your likes and dislikes.
As
For instance; by way of example; thus; - used to introduce illustrative phrases, sentences, or citations.
Like
(internet) An individual vote showing support for, approval of, or enjoyment of, something posted on the Internet.
As
Than.
The king was not more forward to bestow favors on them as they free to deal affronts to others their superiors.
Like
(sometimes as the likes of) Someone similar to a given person, or something similar to a given object; a comparative; a type; a sort.
There were bowls full of sweets, chocolates and the like.
It was something the likes of which I had never seen before.
As
Expressing a wish.
Like
(golf) The stroke that equalizes the number of strokes played by the opposing player or side.
To play the like
As
An ace.
Like
Similar.
My partner and I have like minds.
The two cats were as like as though they had come from the same litter.
As
The chemical symbol for arsenic.
Like
Likely; probable.
As
A Roman weight, answering to the libra or pound, equal to nearly eleven ounces Troy weight. It was divided into twelve ounces.
Like
Inclined (to), prone (to).
He seems like to run from any semblance of hard work.
As
A Roman copper coin, originally of a pound weight (12 oz.); but reduced, after the first Punic war, to two ounces; in the second Punic war, to one ounce; and afterwards to half an ounce.
Like
Likely.
As
A very poisonous metallic element that has three allotropic forms; arsenic and arsenic compounds are used as herbicides and insecticides and various alloys; found in arsenopyrite and orpiment and realgar
Like
In a like or similar manner.
As
A United States territory on the eastern part of the island of Samoa
Like
(colloquial) As, the way.
As
To the same degree (often followed by `as');
They were equally beautiful
Birds were singing and the child sang as sweetly
Sang as sweetly as a nightingale
He is every bit as mean as she is
Like
As if; as though.
It looks like you've finished the project.
It seemed like you didn't care.
Like
Similar to, reminiscent of
Like
Typical of
It would be just like Achilles to be sulking in his tent.
Like
Approximating
Popcorn costs something like $10 dollars at the movies.
Like
In the manner of, similarly to
He doesn't act like a president.
Like
Such as
It's for websites like Wikipedia.
Like
As if there would be
It looks like a hot summer in Europe.
Like
Used to ask for a description or opinion of someone or something
I hear she has a new boyfriend. What's he like?
What's the weather like in Ürümqi today?
Like
Having the same, or nearly the same, appearance, qualities, or characteristics; resembling; similar to; similar; alike; - often with in and the particulars of the resemblance; as, they are like each other in features, complexion, and many traits of character.
'T is as like youAs cherry is to cherry.
Like master, like man.
He giveth snow like wool; he scattereth the hoar-frost like ashes.
Like
Equal, or nearly equal; as, fields of like extent.
More clergymen were impoverished by the late war than ever in the like space before.
Like
Having probability; affording probability; probable; likely.
But it is like the jolly world about us will scoff at the paradox of these practices.
Many were not easy to be governed, nor like to conform themselves to strict rules.
Like
Inclined toward; disposed to; as, to feel like taking a walk.
Had like to have been my utter overthrow.
Ramona had like to have said the literal truth, . . . but recollected herself in time.
Like
That which is equal or similar to another; the counterpart; an exact resemblance; a copy.
He was a man, take him for all in all,I shall not look upon his like again.
Like
A liking; a preference; inclination; - usually in pl.; as, we all have likes and dislikes.
Like
The stroke which equalizes the number of strokes played by the opposing player or side; as, to play the like.
Like
In a manner like that of; in a manner similar to; as, do not act like him.
He maketh them to stagger like a drunken man.
Like
In a like or similar manner.
Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.
Like
Likely; probably.
Like
To suit; to please; to be agreeable to.
Cornwall him liked best, therefore he chose there.
I willingly confess that it likes me much better when I find virtue in a fair lodging than when I am bound to seek it in an ill-favored creature.
Like
To be pleased with in a moderate degree; to approve; to take satisfaction in; to enjoy.
He proceeded from looking to liking, and from liking to loving.
Like
To liken; to compare.
Like me to the peasant boys of France.
Like
To be pleased; to choose.
He may either go or stay, as he best likes.
Like
To have an appearance or expression; to look; to seem to be (in a specified condition).
You like well, and bear your years very well.
Like
Prefer or wish to do something;
Do you care to try this dish?
Would you like to come along to the movies?
Like
Find enjoyable or agreeable;
I like jogging
She likes to read Russian novels
Like
Be fond of;
I like my nephews
Like
Feel about or towards; consider, evaluate, or regard;
How did you like the President's speech last night?
Like
Want to have;
I'd like a beer now!
Like
Resembling or similar; having the same or some of the same characteristics; often used in combination;
Suits of like design
A limited circle of like minds
Members of the cat family have like dispositions
As like as two peas in a pod
Doglike devotion
A dreamlike quality
Like
Equal in amount or value;
Like amounts
Equivalent amounts
The same amount
Gave one six blows and the other a like number
An equal number
The same number
Like
Having the same or similar characteristics;
All politicians are alike
They looked utterly alike
Friends are generaly alike in background and taste
Like
Conforming in every respect;
Boxes with corresponding dimensions
The like period of the preceding year
Common Curiosities
Is "like" appropriate for formal writing?
"Like" can be used in formal writing but is less formal than "as" when providing comparisons or examples.
Can I use "as" when making similes?
Yes, "as" is commonly used in similes to compare actions or states.
What is a common mistake when using "like" and "as"?
A common mistake is using "like" instead of "as" when referring to roles or functions.
Can "as" and "like" be used interchangeably?
No, "as" is used for roles and functions, whereas "like" is for general comparisons.
Can "like" start a sentence in formal writing?
It is generally avoided at the start of sentences in formal writing.
Can "like" be used as a verb?
Yes, "like" is commonly used as a verb meaning to enjoy or favor something.
How can I remember the difference between "as" and "like"?
Remember "as" for roles/functions and "like" for resemblance; "as" is more formal.
Which is more versatile, "as" or "like"?
"As" is more versatile due to its use as both a conjunction and a preposition.
When should I use "such as"?
Use "such as" when providing examples in both formal and informal contexts.
Is "as" ever used informally?
Yes, "as" can be used informally, especially in phrases like "as you know."
What is the role of "as if" and "like" in sentences?
Both are used to express hypothetical or imaginary situations, but "as if" is more formal.
Can "like" be used in academic essays?
It can be used cautiously, primarily in quotations or less formal examples.
Does "as" imply equality in comparisons?
Yes, "as" often implies a closer degree of equality or function in its comparisons.
Why might "like" be preferred in spoken English?
"Like" is often preferred in spoken English due to its informal and versatile usage.
Is it correct to use "as" in place of "because"?
Yes, "as" can be used to mean "because" in explaining reasons or causes.
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Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
