be like this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be like this" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a desired state or behavior, often in informal contexts. Example: "When giving feedback, I want you to be like this: constructive and supportive."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

"Workplaces can be like this.

The New York Times

"Protesting shouldn't be like this.

The New Yorker

I wouldn't be like this".

The New York Times - Health

It won't be like this".

The New York Times - Sports

"Every district should be like this one".

The New York Times

How can it be like this?

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

I'm like: "This is quite cool.

The New York Times - Arts

Therapy is like this.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Gatita is like this".

The New York Times - Travel

It was like this:.

The New Yorker

Football is like this".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "be like this" to set an example or standard, especially in instructions or guidelines. For instance, "When providing feedback, be like this: specific, actionable, and kind."

Common error

Avoid using "be like this" in formal writing such as academic papers or business reports. Opt for more precise and professional alternatives like "resemble" or "conform to" in such settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be like this" functions primarily as a directive or descriptive phrase. It is used to indicate a desired state, behavior, or characteristic, often encouraging imitation or adherence. As shown in Ludwig, it is versatile across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

4%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be like this" is a common and versatile phrase, generally correct and suitable for informal and neutral contexts. As Ludwig AI points out, it functions as a directive or descriptive phrase, encouraging emulation or adherence to a standard. While primarily found in news and media sources, it is less common in formal academic or scientific writing. When using this phrase, ensure the context is clear and specify the desired behavior or characteristic. For formal settings, consider alternatives such as "resemble this" or "conform to this" to maintain a professional tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

act in this manner

Emphasizes the way someone behaves, with a slightly more formal tone.

resemble this

Focuses on physical similarity rather than behavioral or abstract likeness.

be of this kind

Categorizes something as belonging to a certain type or nature.

behave similarly

Highlights comparable behavior but may not capture the specific context.

turn out this way

Focuses on the result or outcome, indicating a specific development.

follow this pattern

Highlights adherence to a specific sequence or arrangement.

mirror this

Suggests a direct imitation or reflection of a particular situation or action.

unfold in this fashion

Suggests a particular sequence of events or process, often in a narrative context.

conform to this

Implies adherence to a standard or expectation, not just resemblance.

transpire thusly

Emphasizes the way something happens, often used in formal or literary contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "be like this" in a sentence?

You can use "be like this" to suggest emulation of a certain behavior or state. For example, "I want to "be like this" when I grow up: confident and kind."

What are some alternatives to "be like this"?

Alternatives include "resemble this", "act in this manner", or "behave similarly". The best choice depends on the context.

Is "be like this" suitable for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "be like this" is generally more appropriate for informal contexts. In formal writing, consider using alternatives like "conform to this" for increased precision.

What's the difference between "be like this" and "resemble this"?

"Be like this" often refers to behavior or qualities, whereas "resemble this" typically refers to physical or visual similarity. For example, "I want my presentation to be like this: clear and concise" versus "The new building should resemble this old one".