I worked like

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I worked like" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare one's work ethic or effort to something else, often in a simile format. Example: "I worked like a dog to finish the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

"I worked like crazy.

The New Yorker

I worked like a dog.

The New Yorker

"I worked like a dog for eight months," he said.

The New York Times - Arts

I worked like fuck to get everything ready.

The Guardian

So I figured, I gotta learn Kansai dialect, and I worked like a dog to do just that".

The New Yorker

For this one, he said, "I worked like a tailor for five days".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

I work like a painter.

The Guardian

"I work like crazy now!" he said.

The New York Times

"I work like most artists -- 24/7.

The New York Times

"I work like a machine," said Ms. Gameel.

The New York Times

I work like most people, not to waste my life.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "I worked like" to vividly describe the intensity of your effort by comparing it to something known for similar qualities. For example, "I worked like a dog" implies tireless effort.

Common error

Avoid using "I worked like" with vague or weak comparisons. The simile loses its impact if the thing you're comparing your work to isn't clearly associated with hard work or dedication. For example, "I worked like a cloud" doesn't effectively convey effort.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I worked like" functions as the beginning of a simile, used to draw a comparison between the effort exerted and another entity or concept. The purpose is to emphasize the intensity or nature of the work done. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I worked like" serves to initiate a comparison, emphasizing the intensity or quality of effort. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely applicable. While it appears across various contexts, it's most prevalent in news and media, suggesting its effectiveness in conveying personal experiences. To ensure clarity, avoid vague comparisons. Alternatives like "I toiled as if" or "I labored like" can also express intense effort, as well.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I toiled as if

Replaces "worked" with "toiled," suggesting hard, continuous labor.

I labored like

Substitutes "worked" with "labored," implying strenuous physical or mental effort.

I exerted myself like

Emphasizes the effort put in by using "exerted myself".

I slaved away like

Conveys a sense of prolonged, exhausting work.

I hustled like

Indicates energetic and persistent effort, especially in business or competitive situations.

I gave it my all like

Focuses on the complete dedication and effort given to a task.

I dedicated myself like

Highlights the commitment and focus applied to the work.

I committed myself like

Similar to 'dedicated myself', but with a stronger sense of obligation.

I applied myself like

Emphasizes the focused effort and diligence put into the work.

I poured my heart and soul like

Suggests a passionate and deeply emotional investment in the work.

FAQs

How can I use "I worked like" in a sentence?

You can use "I worked like" to create a simile that emphasizes the intensity or nature of your work. For example, "I worked like a machine to meet the deadline" or "I worked like a detective to uncover the truth".

What phrases are similar to "I worked like"?

Similar phrases include "I toiled as if", "I labored like", or "I exerted myself like", which also convey a sense of diligent or strenuous effort.

Is it grammatically correct to say "I worked like"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase "I worked like" is typically followed by a noun or noun phrase to create a simile, comparing one's effort to something else. According to Ludwig AI, this is correct and usable in written English.

What's the difference between "I worked like" and "I worked as"?

"I worked like" is used to draw a comparison, implying similarity in the manner of working. "I worked as" indicates a role or profession. For example, "I worked like a horse" suggests intense effort, while "I worked as a teacher" specifies the job I held.