as you like

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'as you like' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that someone is able to choose or do something as they like or prefer. For example, "You can have whatever drink you like; the bar is open as you like."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Do as you like," he protested.

Encyclopedia Britannica

As you like, then.

The New York Times

Come as often as you like".

The New Yorker

He's as dirty as you like".

The New York Times

Color as you like!

WikiHow

Then accessorize as you like!

WikiHow

Use as many marshmallows as you like!

WikiHow

Use as much as you like!

WikiHow

Be as creative as you like!

WikiHow

Add as many people as you like!

WikiHow

Make as many as you like!

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as you like" when you want to give someone freedom to choose or act according to their preference without imposing your opinion.

Common error

Avoid using "as you like" when you actually care about the outcome. If you have a strong preference, express it directly instead of using this phrase, which can be interpreted as disinterest or even passive-aggression.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as you like" functions as an interjection or adverbial phrase used to express agreement or permission, indicating that someone is free to make their own choice. Ludwig AI validates this through numerous examples demonstrating its flexible application in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

31%

News & Media

29%

Encyclopedias

11%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "as you like" is a versatile and commonly used expression for granting permission or conveying indifference towards someone's choice. As validated by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable across diverse contexts, although it's most frequent in Wiki, News & Media, and Encyclopedias. It’s crucial to use it when you genuinely intend to give someone freedom and avoid it when you have a hidden preference. Alternatives like "as you wish" or "suit yourself" can be used depending on the desired nuance. By understanding its function, purpose, and appropriate usage, you can effectively incorporate "as you like" into your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as you wish

A slightly more formal and deferential way of saying "as you like".

do as you please

A more emphatic and sometimes slightly rebellious way of granting permission.

whatever you prefer

Emphasizes the other person's preference as the deciding factor.

the choice is yours

A more formal way of saying "it's up to you".

your call

Indicates that the decision is entirely up to the other person.

it's up to you

Directly places the responsibility of the decision on the other person.

if you want

A simpler and more direct way of granting permission or expressing indifference.

feel free

Offers explicit permission to do something.

go ahead

Provides simple and immediate permission.

suit yourself

Implies a stronger sense of indifference or mild disapproval.

FAQs

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

You can use "as you like" to indicate that someone has the freedom to make a choice or do something according to their preference. For example, "You can decorate the room "as you like"".

What is a more formal alternative to "as you like"?

A more formal alternative is "as you wish", which carries a slightly more deferential tone.

When is it inappropriate to use "as you like"?

It's inappropriate to use "as you like" if you actually have a strong preference and want to influence the decision. This phrase can come across as dismissive or passive-aggressive if you secretly want something else.

What's the difference between "as you like" and "suit yourself"?

"As you like" is generally neutral, giving someone permission to choose. "Suit yourself" often implies a lack of approval or a warning that the person will face negative consequences for their choice.