act like that

USAGE SUMMARY

"act like that" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is generally used to express disapproval or disappointment towards someone's behavior or actions. Example: "I can't believe you would act like that in front of your parents. It was so disrespectful."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

My brother doesn't act like that.

The Guardian

People in a good place don't act like that.

Independent

I can't say that most mathematicians act like that.

The New Yorker

The younger Henderson said he had never witnessed a coach act like that.

The New York Times

"I thought I was making the right choice but you can't act like that.

Independent

"Because I've seen three people in Rite Aid drug store act like that.

The Guardian - Film

"If an act like that can't move you, then nothing can," said Alston.

The Guardian

You're not going to act like that.

Huffington Post

Stray dogs would never act like that.

Huffington Post

Sixty-year-olds are supposed to act like that.

HuffPost

You still got cops who act like that.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "act like that" to express disapproval or disagreement with someone's behavior. It is often used to suggest that the behavior is inappropriate or unexpected.

Common error

Avoid using "act like that" in very formal or academic writing. While the phrase is widely understood, it is generally considered informal. In formal contexts, consider alternatives such as "behave in that manner" or "conduct oneself in such a way".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "act like that" functions as a verb phrase used to describe or comment on someone's behavior. It often implies disapproval or surprise regarding the actions being described. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

25%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "act like that" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe and often judge someone's behavior. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to informal contexts. For more formal settings, alternatives such as "behave in that manner" may be more appropriate. The phrase is frequently found in news articles and general web content, making it a recognizable and practical expression in everyday language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Act in such a way

A general way to describe acting or behaving in a specific manner.

Behave in that manner

Emphasizes the way someone conducts themselves.

Show such behavior

Highlights the demonstration of specific actions or conduct.

Conduct oneself thus

A more formal way of saying "act like that", indicating behavior or deportment.

Carry on in that fashion

Focuses on the style or method of someone's behavior.

Go on like that

Describes a continuous or ongoing way of behaving.

Do things like that

Simple and direct way of referencing particular actions.

Present oneself so

Focuses on the image or impression someone is giving off.

Comport oneself thusly

A very formal and somewhat archaic way of saying "behave like that".

Perform in that style

Emphasizes the performance aspect of someone's actions.

FAQs

How can I use "act like that" in a sentence?

You can use "act like that" to express disapproval or surprise regarding someone's behavior. For example, "I can't believe he would act like that after all we've done for him."

What does it mean when someone says, "Don't act like that?"

Saying "Don't act like that" typically means that the person is displaying behavior that is considered inappropriate, immature, or undesirable. It's a request for them to change their behavior.

What are some alternative ways to say "act like that"?

You can use alternatives like "behave in that manner", "conduct oneself thus", or "carry on in that fashion" depending on the context.

Is "act like that" grammatically correct?

Yes, "act like that" is grammatically correct. It's a common phrase used in everyday language to describe someone's behavior or actions.