as foolish as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as foolish as" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare someone's actions or decisions to a standard of foolishness, often in a humorous or critical context. Example: "He acted as foolish as a child who touches a hot stove despite being warned."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Opinion

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

That would be as foolish as it would be tragic.

The Economist

So you could be as foolish as possible.

The New York Times

"As foolish as it may seem, we had never given much thought to it.

The New Yorker

Around New York, Dolan is presumed to be as foolish as he can be contentious.

The New York Times - Sports

Maybe love really is as foolish as Polataiko has made it out to be.

The Guardian - Opinion

He added: "I think Democrats will be universally opposed to doing something as foolish as that.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

The stepsisters are not as foolish (or as funny) as Ashton's.

The New Yorker

This makes us foolish as well as miserable.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Even on stage, older women are so often portrayed as foolish, silly … not as powerful figures.

The Guardian

Huddled behind a rubble barricade, I felt as foolish and professionally humiliated as I felt frightened.

The New York Times - Magazine

Neither gives ground except on their own terms, yet both are as foolish in love as the rest of us.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as foolish as", ensure that the comparison is clear and relevant to the context. A strong comparison enhances the impact of your statement. For example: "Investing in that company now would be "as foolish as" buying a car with no engine."

Common error

Avoid using "as foolish as" in contexts where a milder criticism is more appropriate. Overusing strong language can dilute the impact of your writing and make it seem hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as foolish as" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, used to equate the level of foolishness between two subjects or actions. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. The phrase amplifies the description of one subject by relating it to another well-understood instance of foolishness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Opinion

20%

Books

10%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as foolish as" is a commonly used comparative phrase that serves to highlight a lack of good judgment. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and appears frequently in news, opinion pieces, and books. The phrase effectively conveys criticism or disapproval by comparing a subject to something known to be unwise. While it's generally neutral in register, careful use is recommended to avoid overstatement. Remembering these guidelines will aid in using "as foolish as" effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

equally unwise

Emphasizes the lack of wisdom in a comparative way, focusing on the decision-making aspect.

just as absurd

Highlights the ridiculous or nonsensical nature of the comparison.

similarly irrational

Focuses on the lack of logical reasoning in the comparison.

asinine in comparison

Implies a high degree of foolishness, bordering on stupidity, in the comparison.

no less imprudent

Stresses the lack of careful consideration or foresight in the comparative action.

equally ill-advised

Highlights that the advice or course of action is poor or unsuitable in both cases.

comparably senseless

Focuses on the lack of purpose or meaning in the action being compared.

just as daft

Indicates silliness or frivolity in the comparison.

similarly scatterbrained

Suggests a lack of focus or organization in the comparison.

no smarter than

Directly compares the intelligence or wisdom of the subjects being discussed.

FAQs

How can I use "as foolish as" in a sentence?

You can use "as foolish as" to compare two actions or ideas that are similarly unwise. For example, "Trying to argue with him is "as foolish as" trying to empty the ocean with a spoon."

What are some alternatives to "as foolish as"?

Alternatives include "equally unwise", "just as absurd", or "similarly irrational", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "as foolish than" instead of "as foolish as"?

No, the correct comparative structure is "as" + adjective + "as". "As foolish than" is grammatically incorrect; you should always use "as foolish as".

What is the difference between "as foolish as" and "foolish"?

"Foolish" is a general adjective describing someone or something lacking in good sense or judgment. "As foolish as" is a comparative phrase that emphasizes the degree of foolishness by linking it to another equally foolish action or idea. It serves to intensify the criticism.