dead like

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dead like" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in similes to compare something to being lifeless or inactive, often in a humorous or exaggerated context. Example: "After the long meeting, I felt dead like a doornail."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

DEAD LIKE ME Showtime, tonight at 10, Eastern and Pacific times; 9, Central time.

The New York Times

Dead like 3DTV is dead.

TechCrunch

He was dead like that.

Independent

Mr deKrugman: Or dead like that poor Greek fellow.

The New York Times

Not just let my nephew lay dead like that.

The New York Times

Eventually, she is dragged offstage, presumably dead, like Weese in "Shambards".

The New Yorker

"Don't you just love it when they play dead like that," one bear says to another.

The New York Times

But then it would have bounced down the slope — it wouldn't have stopped dead like this.

The New Yorker

They played the bagpipes again and recited the names of the dead like poetry.

The New York Times

He is dead like everyone else, except that he is not.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The DEAD domain, specific to the DEAD-like helicase superfamily, contains several ATP-binding sites and it is involved in ATP-dependent RNA or DNA unwinding.

BMC Plant Biology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dead like" in similes to create vivid comparisons, but be mindful of the context to avoid insensitivity. Consider replacing it with more appropriate alternatives like "as dead as" in formal writing.

Common error

While effective for emphasis, avoid overuse. Vary your descriptive language by using other similes or metaphors. Too much repetition dilutes the impact and can make your writing monotonous.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dead like" primarily functions as part of a simile, drawing a comparison to something that is lifeless or inactive. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, though its formality may vary depending on the context.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

11%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "dead like" is a grammatically correct and frequently used simile to emphasize a state of lifelessness or inactivity. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, with numerous examples available across various contexts, most notably in News & Media. While it can add vividness to writing, it's essential to consider the formality of the context and potential sensitivity of the audience. Alternatives such as "as dead as" or "lifeless like" may be more suitable for formal contexts. Therefore, use "dead like" judiciously to enhance your writing while being mindful of your intended message and audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as dead as

This is a more concise and widely recognized simile for describing something completely lifeless.

lifeless like

Highlights the absence of life, similar in meaning but with different emphasis.

like death

This alternative uses 'death' directly to emphasize the comparison.

like a corpse

More direct reference to a dead body.

resembling death

Focuses on the visual or sensory similarity to a deceased state.

as still as death

Emphasizes the stillness and lack of movement associated with death.

inanimate as

Shifts the focus to the lack of life or animation.

completely lifeless

Expresses the utter absence of life.

not alive

Simple and direct negation of being alive.

bereft of life

More formal and poetic way to express the absence of life.

FAQs

How can I use "dead like" in a sentence?

You can use "dead like" to create a simile, comparing something to being lifeless. For example, "After working all night, I felt "dead like" a zombie."

What is a common alternative to "dead like"?

A common and concise alternative is "as dead as", which is often followed by a common reference point, such as "a doornail".

Is it appropriate to use "dead like" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "dead like" may be considered less formal. For formal writing, consider using more direct or established similes or metaphors to convey the intended meaning. Examples: "lifeless", "inanimate", "deceased", "passed away".

What kind of comparisons is "dead like" suitable for?

"Dead like" is suitable for comparisons emphasizing a complete lack of life, activity, or function. However, consider the sensitivity of your audience, as it directly references death. Context is important.