as they wish

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as they wish" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone is allowed to do something according to their own preferences or desires. Example: "The guests are free to arrange the seating as they wish to create a comfortable atmosphere."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Britons and Europeans can come and go as they wish.

The Economist

"Let everyone follow as much as they wish.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Participants then use PLM as often as they wish.

Stanford University

Let the students be as creative as they wish.

University of California, Berkeley

Meanwhile, men dress and act as they wish.

The Washington Post

Candidates could opt in, or not, as they wish.

The Washington Post

Such disclosures allow consumers to react as they wish.

The New York Times - Tech

Universities may enter as many categories as they wish.

The Guardian

Thus, conservatives get to govern as they wish.

The Washington Post

"They are people entitled to live as they wish".

The New York Times - Magazine

Visitors are encouraged to linger as long as they wish.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as they wish" to grant autonomy or indicate that individuals are free to act according to their own desires or preferences.

Common error

Avoid using "as they wish" in highly formal documents where more precise or authoritative language might be required. Opt for alternatives like "at their discretion" or "according to their preferences" in professional settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as they wish" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate the manner in which an action is performed. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across a wide range of contexts, indicating a permissive or unrestricted action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as they wish" is a versatile and grammatically correct adverbial phrase that grants permission or expresses allowance for individuals to act according to their own preferences. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used in various contexts, from news and media to academia and science. Although suitable for both formal and informal settings, it is important to consider if a more formal version of the phrase is required. Its frequency and consistent usage across authoritative sources demonstrate its reliability and acceptance in the English language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as they please

Emphasizes doing something in a way that is agreeable or satisfactory to oneself, highlighting personal satisfaction.

according to their preference

Highlights that choices are based on individual tastes or inclinations, making it suitable for formal settings.

as they see fit

Stresses that actions are taken based on one's assessment of what is appropriate or necessary.

at their discretion

Implies that someone has the power or right to make a decision or take action without needing permission.

if they so desire

Highlights a personal longing or aspiration, making it suitable for emotional or motivational contexts.

if they want to

This is more informal, indicating a simple willingness or inclination to do something.

as they choose to

Focuses on the act of making a selection or decision from available options.

of their own volition

Stresses that actions are performed willingly and without external pressure or coercion.

as it suits them

Highlights convenience and practicality, suitable for situations where comfort and ease are priorities.

by their own choice

Emphasizes independence and the freedom to decide without influence or compulsion.

FAQs

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

The phrase "as they wish" is used to indicate that individuals have the freedom to act according to their own preferences. For example, "Participants can use the PLM "as often as they wish"."

What are some alternatives to "as they wish"?

You can use alternatives like "as they please", "according to their preference", or "as they see fit", depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "as they wish"?

Yes, the phrase "as they wish" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English to express the idea of someone acting according to their own desires or preferences.

What's the difference between "as they wish" and "if they want to"?

"As they wish" is generally more formal than "if they want to". Both phrases convey the idea of freedom of choice, but "as they wish" may be more appropriate in formal writing or when granting explicit permission, while "if they want to" is more casual.