does as they please

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "does as they please" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone acting according to their own desires or preferences without regard for others. Example: "In this free-spirited community, everyone does as they please, embracing their individuality."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"A nation that refuses to allow educators to teach children right from wrong will become a corrupt nation, where sin prevails, evil abounds, and everyone does as they please," said Republican state Rep. John Bennett, according to the Sequoyah County Times.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

People do as they please.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"They do as they please," he said.

The New York Times - Arts

All may do as they please.

The Guardian - Tech

Scientists who spurn federal cash may do as they please.

The Economist

In other words, boards can still do as they please.

The New York Times

British prime ministers do as they please, unmolested.

Independent

Private landlords can do as they please, of course.

Independent

But in private, Saudis can largely do as they please.

The New York Times

They run away and do as they please".

The New York Times

In Mahagonny people will do as they please.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "does as they please" to concisely describe someone's independent and self-directed behavior, particularly when they disregard external constraints or expectations. This phrase adds a sense of freedom and autonomy to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "does as they please" in highly formal or professional settings where a more neutral or diplomatic tone is required. Opt for phrases like "acts independently" or "exercises autonomy" to maintain a professional demeanor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "does as they please" functions as a verb phrase that describes the action of someone behaving according to their own desires or whims, often without regard for the rules or expectations of others. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Academia

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "does as they please" is a versatile and commonly used expression to describe someone acting independently and according to their own desires. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and grammatical correctness. Appearing most frequently in news and media sources, it conveys a sense of autonomy and freedom from external constraints. While generally neutral in register, it is essential to consider the context and opt for more formal alternatives in professional settings. Related phrases include "acts according to their own desires" and "follows their own inclinations", offering nuanced ways to express similar concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acts according to their own desires

Replaces "please" with "desires", focusing on internal motivation.

follows their own inclinations

Emphasizes internal urges or tendencies guiding behavior.

operates autonomously

Highlights independence and self-governance in actions.

exercises free will

Focuses on the philosophical aspect of making independent choices.

obeys only their own rules

Highlights a disregard for external rules in favor of self-imposed ones.

marches to the beat of their own drum

An idiomatic expression emphasizing individuality and non-conformity.

carries on as they see fit

Stresses the personal judgement used in making decisions.

goes their own way

Emphasizes independence in direction and decision-making.

answers to no one

Highlights the absence of external authority or control.

is a law unto themselves

Idiomatic phrase indicating a disregard for conventional laws and norms.

FAQs

How can I use "does as they please" in a sentence?

You can use "does as they please" to describe someone who acts according to their own desires without regard for external rules or expectations. For example: "In this free-spirited community, everyone "does as they please", embracing their individuality."

What can I say instead of "does as they please"?

You can use alternatives like "acts according to their own desires", "follows their own inclinations", or "operates autonomously" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "do as you please"?

Yes, "do as you please" is grammatically correct and commonly used. It is an imperative phrase giving permission or expressing indifference to someone's actions.

What is the difference between "does as they please" and "does what they want"?

While both phrases express autonomy, "does as they please" often implies a disregard for external constraints or expectations, whereas "does what they want" is a more general statement of pursuing one's desires.