Key Difference

• “As” is typically used when comparing roles, functions, or identities.
• “Like” is generally used to show similarity or resemblance between two things.

1. Using “As”

• Purpose: Use “as” when describing a role, job, or function.
• Examples:
  • “She works as a teacher.” (She has the role or job of a teacher.)
  • “We use this tool as a hammer.” (We are using it in the role of a hammer.)
• Explanation: When you use “as”, you’re saying that something is actually functioning or acting in a specific way.

🔹 Special Case: Comparisons with Actions

• “As” is also used when comparing how two actions are done, especially with verbs.
• Example: “She sings as he does.” (Her singing is done in the same way as his.)
• “We must complete this project as we discussed.” (The project should follow the discussed method.)

2. Using “Like”

• Purpose: Use “like” to show a resemblance or similarity between two things without implying they are the same.
• Examples:
  • “He swims like a fish.” (He swims in a way similar to a fish, but he isn’t actually a fish!)
  • “She looks like her sister.” (She has a resemblance to her sister but isn’t her sister.)
• Explanation: Think of “like” as highlighting something similar but not identical or functioning as the other thing.

Examples for Comparison

Let’s see these in action to clarify the distinction:

1. “As” for Role:
   • “John works as a manager.” (John’s actual job title or role is a manager.)
2. “Like” for Similarity:
   • “John manages like a pro.” (John’s style is similar to a professional, but he might not actually be one.)
3. “As” with Verbs:
   • “Please do it as I showed you.” (The action should follow the same method I used.)
4. “Like” with Descriptions:
   • “It feels like summer today.” (The day feels similar to summer, but it’s not actually summer.)

Practice Exercise

Try filling in the blanks with “as” or “like” to reinforce your understanding!

1. She’s known ____ the best teacher in the school.
2. He speaks French ____ a native speaker.
3. They work together ____ a team.
4. The bird flies ____ an eagle.

Answers

1. She’s known as the best teacher in the school.
2. He speaks French like a native speaker.
3. They work together as a team.
4. The bird flies like an eagle.