as they like

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as they like" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone can do something according to their own preferences or desires. Example: "The children can choose their activities as they like during the free time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Maybe pyjamas, as they like … sleeping?" 18.

The Guardian - Opinion

People pay as they like, and they run as long as they like.

The New Yorker

Then kids can go thieving as much as they like".

Independent

Its Lithuanian minority can spell their names as they like.

The Economist

They're good boys, much as they like to pretend otherwise.

The New York Times

People can trade as often as they like.

The Economist

A £500 overdraft means £500 to spend as they like.

The Guardian - Money

And doing just as they like with the car keys.

The New Yorker

They can doctor those figures as much as they like.

The Guardian

Individuals can then top up social provision as they like.

The New York Times - Books

Recipients can do with the money as they like.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as they like", ensure the pronoun "they" clearly refers to a specific group or individuals to avoid ambiguity. For instance, clarify who "they" are in the preceding sentence or clause.

Common error

Avoid using "as they like" when referring to a single person. The phrase is inherently plural and requires a subject that is also plural. Use "as he/she likes" or similar phrasing when referring to an individual.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as they like" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb and indicating the manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig examples showcase its use in describing how individuals exercise their freedom of choice or preference. The phrase indicates a permission, allowance, or opportunity to choose.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

18%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as they like" is a versatile and commonly used expression that indicates freedom of choice or preference. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and suitable for a variety of contexts, ranging from news articles to scientific papers. While generally neutral in tone, it's important to ensure that the pronoun "they" is clearly defined and that the phrase is used with a plural subject. Alternatives such as "as they wish" or "as they please" can be used to add variety to your writing. Overall, "as they like" is a reliable and effective way to express the idea of acting according to one's own desires. Finally, remember that while Ludwig provides many examples, always consider the specific context of your writing to choose the most appropriate phrasing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as they wish

Replaces "like" with "wish", emphasizing desire or volition.

as they please

Uses "please" instead of "like", conveying a sense of doing something according to one's own inclination.

however they want

Uses "want" to express desire, making the phrase more informal.

according to their preferences

Rephrases the idea using "preferences", making it slightly more formal.

as they see fit

Replaces "like" with "see fit", implying a consideration of suitability or appropriateness.

at their discretion

Employs "discretion", suggesting a degree of judgment and freedom in decision-making.

in any way they choose

Emphasizes the freedom of choice using the word "choose"

as they see best

Suggests acting according to one's best judgment or understanding.

in their own way

Focuses on the manner in which something is done, rather than the act itself.

of their own volition

This alternative is much more formal. Expresses that something is done willingly or without being forced.

FAQs

How can I use "as they like" in a sentence?

The phrase "as they like" indicates that individuals have the freedom to act according to their preferences. For example: "The students can arrange the furniture "as they please"."

What are some alternatives to "as they like"?

You can use alternatives such as "as they wish", ""as they please"", or "however they want" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "as he likes" or "as she likes" instead of "as they like"?

Yes, "as he likes" or "as she likes" is correct when referring to a single individual. "As they like" is used for plural subjects. For example: "He can decorate the room "as he wishes"."

What's the difference between "as they like" and "as they prefer"?

"As they like" is a more general expression of preference, while "as they prefer" directly emphasizes a specific choice or inclination. You might say, "They can organize the event "as they like"", or, more specifically, "They can organize the event "according to their preferences"".