do likewise

USAGE SUMMARY

"do likewise" is a grammatically correct and common phrase that can be used in written English.
It is typically used as a command or suggestion to do the same thing as someone else or to follow their example. Example: "I always recycle my plastic bottles and I suggest you do likewise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Can you do likewise?

The New Yorker

Many countries do likewise.

The Guardian - Opinion

Then Georgia do likewise.

The Guardian - Sport

Why shouldn't Washington do likewise?

The New York Times

Other companies should do likewise.

The Economist

Progressive "super pacs" do likewise.

The Guardian - Opinion

Conservative Republicans should do likewise.

The New York Times

The Senate should do likewise.

The New York Times

Go and do likewise gents.

The Guardian - Film

Pardew will not do likewise.

The Guardian - Sport

I hope I can do likewise.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "do likewise" when you want to clearly and concisely suggest that someone should repeat a specific action or follow a particular example. It adds a touch of formality and is well-suited for persuasive writing.

Common error

Avoid using "do likewise" in very informal or casual conversations. It can sound stilted or overly formal in those settings. Opt for simpler alternatives like "do the same" or "copy that" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "do likewise" functions as an adverbial phrase that modifies a verb. It essentially means to perform the same action as previously mentioned. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "do likewise" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that serves to encourage or instruct someone to repeat a previous action. Ludwig AI affirms its validity and common usage. While versatile, it leans toward a neutral to formal register, making it suitable for news articles, professional communications, and persuasive writing. Alternatives include "follow suit" and "do the same", but "do likewise" adds a touch of formality often appreciated in specific contexts. Its frequent appearance in reputable sources like The Guardian and The New York Times underscores its reliability and acceptance in standard English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

follow suit

Emphasizes copying or imitating someone's action, often in a formal or strategic context.

do the same

A direct and simple way of expressing the same sentiment, suitable for informal contexts.

act accordingly

Suggests a response that is appropriate to the situation, rather than a direct imitation.

take similar action

Focuses on performing a similar action, allowing for slight variations based on circumstances.

replicate this action

Highlights the precise copying of an action, often in a technical or scientific setting.

emulate this behavior

Implies a more conscious and deliberate effort to copy someone's behavior, often with admiration.

mirror this

Suggests a direct and often unconscious imitation, like a reflection in a mirror.

repeat the process

Emphasizes the repetition of a specific sequence of actions.

go down the same path

Indicates choosing a similar course of action or strategy.

reciprocate in kind

Focuses on responding with a similar gesture or action, often in a social or interpersonal context.

FAQs

How can I use "do likewise" in a sentence?

The phrase "do likewise" is typically used as a suggestion or command, advising someone to repeat an action or follow an example. For instance, "I always recycle my plastic bottles, and I suggest you "do likewise"".

What are some alternatives to saying "do likewise"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "follow suit", "do the same", or "act accordingly". Each carries a slightly different nuance.

Is it correct to say "do like" instead of "do likewise"?

While "do like" might be used informally, "do likewise" is grammatically correct and more appropriate for formal writing. "Do like" could be considered colloquial.

What is the difference between "do the same" and "do likewise"?

Both phrases suggest repeating an action, but "do likewise" is generally more formal and often implies following a specific example or instruction. "Do the same" is more straightforward and can be used in a broader range of contexts.