be as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be as" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to make comparisons or express a degree of similarity or equality in a certain context. Example: "You should be as diligent in your studies as you are in your hobbies."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Would he be as interesting?

The New York Times

I wouldn't be as happy.

Independent

"I wouldn't be as extroverted".

The New York Times

Be as prepared as possible.

The Guardian

That can be as entertaining.

The New York Times

Let L be as above.

SEP

Be as convenient as possible.

Bplans

Be as flirty as possible.

WikiHow

Be as bubbly as bubblegum!

WikiHow

Be as normal as possible.

WikiHow

Be as original as possible.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be as" for comparisons, ensure that the compared elements are logically consistent. For example, "Be as diligent in planning the event as you are in executing it" creates a clear, balanced comparison.

Common error

Avoid incomplete comparisons that lack a clear reference point. For instance, instead of saying "Be as efficient", specify what you should be as efficient as to provide context and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "be as" is to establish comparisons or express conditions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and usable phrase in written English, typically used to indicate similarity or equality. It often precedes an adjective followed by 'as', forming a comparative structure.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

42%

News & Media

23%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be as" is a versatile construction primarily used for making comparisons and setting conditions. According to Ludwig AI, it's a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase in English. Its widespread use across various sources, particularly in Wiki and News & Media contexts, underscores its general applicability. When using "be as", ensure clarity in your comparisons to avoid ambiguity and enhance the effectiveness of your communication. The phrase maintains a neutral register, fitting well in both casual and professional settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

just like

Highlights the resemblance between two things.

being like

Focuses on similarity rather than direct comparison.

be similar to

Emphasizes the likeness between two things or states.

behave as

Focuses on actions aligning with a specific manner.

be comparable to

Expresses that two things can be compared or seen as similar.

being as though

Introduces a hypothetical scenario, similar to "as if".

to act like

Highlights behavior resembling something else.

being equivalent to

Expresses a state of equality or interchangeability.

as per

Indicates adherence to a specified guideline or instruction.

as specified

Highlights compliance with a particular requirement.

FAQs

How can I use "be as" to compare two things?

Use "be as" followed by an adjective and "as" to compare two items, ensuring both items are clearly stated. For example, "This task should "be as thorough as" the last one".

What are some common phrases that use "be as"?

Common phrases include "be as quick as", "be as diligent as", and "be as careful as", each emphasizing a comparison in quality or action.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "be as"?

Starting a sentence directly with "be as" is uncommon, unless it's part of a conditional statement or instruction. Generally, it's better to provide context before using "be as" to avoid ambiguity.

What's the difference between "be as" and "being as"?

"Be as" is used for direct comparisons or commands, such as "Be as prepared as possible". "Being as" is more often used as a conjunction similar to "because" or "since", like "Being as it's late, we should leave".