are like

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are like" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to draw comparisons or similarities between two or more subjects. Example: "Cats are like small, independent creatures that often prefer solitude."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

All are 2013 models.

The New York Times

The dates are 1885 through 1887.

The New York Times

There are 2,500 attendees.

The New York Times

So they are 34-10 since. 34-10 since

The New York Times - Sports

Dates are 17-26 Feb.

Independent

Here are 2015 travel..

Los Angeles Times

Like they are this spring.

Los Angeles Times

— are 2015 releases.

Los Angeles Times

"Set" is yesterday, "run" is tomorrow.

The New York Times

But last month was last month".

The New York Times - Sports

"Christmas is Christmas".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are like" to create relatable comparisons for your audience, making complex ideas more accessible by linking them to familiar concepts. Make sure that the comparison is relevant and adds value to the communication.

Common error

Avoid using "are like" in situations where the comparison is vague or misleading. Ensure that the subjects being compared have enough in common to make the analogy useful and clear. If the connection is weak, it can confuse readers and undermine your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are like" functions as a comparative, drawing parallels between different entities. Based on what Ludwig AI reports, it serves to highlight similarities, aiding in understanding or explaining concepts through relatable connections. Examples would clarify relationships or shared attributes.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are like" is a grammatically sound phrase used for making comparisons and drawing parallels between different subjects. As Ludwig AI confirms, it simplifies complex ideas by relating them to familiar concepts. While versatile, its usage tends to lean towards neutral to informal contexts, suggesting that more formal or academic settings might benefit from using alternatives such as "are similar to" or "resemble" for enhanced precision and tone. Although the phrase is correct, a good practice is to ensure the comparison being made is well-defined and appropriate for the intended audience to improve clarity. There were no examples to reference, but the concept remains straightforward.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are similar to

Highlights the shared attributes or characteristics between two subjects.

bear resemblance to

Formal way to say that something has a similar appearance to something else.

are comparable to

Implies a degree of equivalence or that a meaningful comparison can be made.

have similarities with

Highlights shared qualities but does not necessarily suggest complete likeness.

resemble

Emphasizes a visual similarity or likeness in appearance.

are analogous to

Suggests a more complex or structural similarity, often used in technical or formal contexts.

are akin to

Implies a natural similarity or affinity, often suggesting a common origin or nature.

mirror

Indicates a close resemblance, as if one subject is reflecting the other.

parallel

Suggests that two things run alongside each other, sharing similarities in their course or development.

approximate

Suggests a close but not exact resemblance.

FAQs

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

The phrase "are like" is used to draw comparisons between two or more subjects, indicating similarities. For example, "Clouds are like floating cotton balls in the sky."

What's a more formal alternative to "are like"?

For a more formal tone, you could use phrases such as "are similar to", "resemble", or "are analogous to" depending on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to use "are like" in academic writing?

While "are like" is grammatically correct, it may be perceived as informal for certain academic contexts. Consider using more precise language or formal alternatives to maintain a professional tone.

What are common mistakes to avoid when using "are like"?

Avoid using comparisons that are too abstract or unclear. Make sure the subjects being compared have enough shared characteristics to make the comparison meaningful and avoid confusing your audience.