What Does "likewise" Mean?
- Grammatical function: "Likewise" is a conjunctive adverb that expresses addition and similarity. It signals that a new statement is analogous to the previous one, essentially meaning "in the same way" or "also."
- Typical sentence position: It is highly versatile and can appear in the initial position (starting a sentence), medial position (after the subject or auxiliary verb), or final position (at the end of a clause).
- Register: It ranges from neutral to formal. While common in literature and journalism, it is also used in polite spoken English as a reciprocal greeting.
How to Use It
- Syntactic patterns: When used as a transition, it is usually followed by a full independent clause. When used to modify a verb, it often follows the subject or an auxiliary verb (e.g., "He did likewise").
- Punctuation rules: In the sentence-initial position, it is typically followed by a comma. When connecting two independent clauses in a single sentence, it should be preceded by a semicolon and followed by a comma.
- Grammatical flexibility: It can function as a sentence connector or an adverb of manner. It can be moved within a sentence for emphasis but is rarely negated directly (one would say "not in the same way" rather than "not likewise").
- What sounds unnatural: Using "likewise" to connect two ideas that have a cause-and-effect relationship rather than a relationship of similarity sounds incorrect.
Real-World Examples
These examples are sourced from likewise on Ludwig.guru.
"On selection, the deepest fear of anti-academy campaigners, Gove has likewise played it both ways." — The Guardian
"Likewise, Spidey never gets to battle the Hulk, and The Fantastic Four are similarly trapped in their own bubble." — The Guardian
"The problem with the BS is that it disguises a good idea as a bad one - and Cameron's speech did likewise." — The Guardian
"Among Ukip voters, 66% likewise insist that they are committed to their choice." — The Guardian
"While the players were making themselves legends on the pitch, Herbert Zimmerman was doing likewise in the commentary box." — The Guardian
Examples sourced from https://ludwig.guru/s/likewise
Similar Phrases and Alternatives
Depending on the level of formality or the specific situation, you might want to vary your language.
| Phrase |
Context |
| similarly |
The closest synonym; used to compare two similar actions or situations. |
| in the same vein |
Idiomatic; used when continuing a similar line of thought or topic. |
| correspondingly |
More formal; suggests a direct relationship or parallel between two things. |
| by the same token |
Used to introduce a point that is true for the same reasons as the previous one. |
| also |
Neutral and common; a simple way to add information. |
| in like manner |
Very formal/archaic; used in legal or classical literature. |
Common Mistakes
- Punctuation Errors: Forgetting the comma after likewise when it starts a sentence, which can disrupt the flow and clarity of the text.
- Overuse in Simple Lists: Using it where a simple "also" or "and" would suffice, making the prose feel unnecessarily heavy or pretentious.
- Reciprocal Confusion: Learners often use it as a direct substitute for 'me too' in informal conversation where 'you too' would be the required reciprocal response. For example, if someone says "Nice to meet you," the correct response is "Likewise" (meaning "It is nice to meet you, too"), but if someone says "I like pizza," responding with "Likewise" is grammatically possible but sounds much more formal than the standard "Me too."
Quick-Reference Summary
| Expression |
Function |
Register |
Typical Position |
| likewise |
Addition / Similarity |
Neutral to Formal |
Initial, Medial, or Final |
FAQs
Where in a sentence can likewise appear?
Likewise is grammatically flexible and can occupy the sentence-initial, mid-clause, or final position. When starting a sentence, it acts as a transition and requires a comma; when used mid-clause, it often follows the subject to modify the verb directly.
How does likewise differ from similarly?
While both express similarity, likewise is more frequently used to mean "also" or to indicate that an action is being repeated in the same way. Similarly is often preferred in academic contexts to compare two distinct concepts or datasets that share common characteristics.
Can I use likewise to respond to a greeting?
Yes, likewise is a common reciprocal response to phrases like "Nice to meet you" or "Have a good weekend." However, learners often use it as a direct substitute for me too in informal conversation where you too would be the required reciprocal response to a well-wish.