he is like

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "he is like" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to make a comparison or to describe someone's behavior or characteristics in a casual or informal manner. Example: "He is like a breath of fresh air, always bringing positivity to the group."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

(In some ways he is like Lombardi).

The New York Times - Sports

He is like Gumby".

The New York Times - Sports

"He is like a dictator".

The New York Times

"He is like the Chechen Putin".

The New Yorker

Our leader, he is like Hitler".

Independent

He is like a father to me.

The New Yorker

"He is like an eel," she recalled.

The Economist

"He is like a great matador.

The New York Times - Sports

"He is like our father, our guru.

The New York Times

He is like the Energizer bunny.

The New York Times - Sports

He is like family to us".

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "he is like" to create vivid comparisons that enhance understanding and engagement with your writing. For example, "He is like a walking encyclopedia" paints a clearer picture than simply saying "He is knowledgeable."

Common error

Avoid using "he is like" with tired or overused comparisons (e.g., "he is like a rock"). Instead, strive for fresh and original comparisons that add depth and creativity to your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he is like" primarily functions as a comparative expression. It serves to draw parallels between a subject (in this case, "he") and another entity, quality, or characteristic. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "he is like" is a common and grammatically sound way to draw comparisons, as validated by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in News & Media, it serves to enhance understanding by likening a subject to something relatable. While versatile, it's best used with original comparisons to avoid clichés. Alternatives such as "he resembles" or "he is similar to" offer nuanced ways to express similarity. Overall, "he is like" remains a valuable tool for descriptive writing, especially when aiming for clarity and engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he is similar to

Highlights a general likeness in characteristics or qualities.

he resembles

Focuses on physical or superficial similarity.

he reminds me of

Focuses on evoking a memory or association with another person or thing.

he is comparable to

Emphasizes that the two subjects share notable similarities making them suitable for comparison.

he mirrors

Suggests a strong resemblance, almost like a reflection.

he is in the same vein as

Indicates a similarity in style, approach, or spirit.

he is akin to

Implies a natural connection or similarity, often in terms of nature or essence.

he approximates

Suggests the subject comes close to the attributes or qualities of something else.

he parallels

Highlights a corresponding relationship or analogy between two subjects.

he emulates

Expresses the subject imitates or tries to equal another.

FAQs

How can I use "he is like" in a sentence?

Use "he is like" to draw a comparison between someone's characteristics or behavior and something else. For example, "He is like a father to me" indicates a caring and protective relationship.

What are some alternatives to "he is like"?

You can use alternatives such as "he resembles", "he is similar to", or "he reminds me of" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "he is like"?

Yes, "he is like" is grammatically correct and widely accepted in both spoken and written English. It is a common way to make comparisons.

What's the difference between "he is like" and "he is as"?

"He is like" introduces a comparison, while "he is as" requires an adjective to complete the comparison (e.g., "He is as tall as his brother"). "He is like" can be followed by a noun phrase (e.g., "He is like his brother").