Both as and like can be used to say that things are similar. Note that like is a preposition. It is followed by a noun or pronoun which acts as its object.
- She looks like her mother.
- He is a teetotaler like his father.
- He fought like a lion.
As is a conjunction. It is used to introduce a clause. As can also be followed by a prepositional phrase.
- He fought as a lion does.
- Nobody loves her as I do.
In American English, like is also used as a conjunction.
Complete the following sentences using like or as.
1. A butterfly starts life ……………………… a pupa.
Correct!
Wrong!
2. She worked …………………… . a teacher for twenty years before turning writer.
Correct!
Wrong!
3. She looks exactly …………………… her mother did when she was younger.
Correct!
Wrong!
4. She looks a bit ...................................... Sharon Stone.
Correct!
Wrong!
5. I am sending you the payment, .................................... we agreed.
Correct!
Wrong!
Answers
1. A butterfly starts his life as a pupa.
2. She worked as a teacher for twenty years before turning writer.
3. She looks exactly like / as her mother did when she was younger.
4. She looks a bit like Sharon Stone.
5. I am sending you the payment, as we agreed.
