it is like

USAGE SUMMARY

"it is like" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use the phrase to compare something to another thing. For example, "It is like comparing apples to oranges."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It is like commercials.

The New York Times

It is like memory.

The New Yorker

It is like war.

The New York Times

It is like life.

The New York Times

"It is like drinking merlot".

The New York Times

It is like counting sheep.

The New Yorker

"It is like a marriage.

The New Yorker

"It is like every club.

Independent

It is like a cookie.

The New Yorker

It is like an hour.

The New York Times

It is like my country".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is like" to create vivid comparisons that help your audience understand abstract concepts or unfamiliar situations. For example, "Understanding quantum physics is like trying to catch smoke with your bare hands."

Common error

Avoid using overused similes with "it is like", such as "it is like riding a bike" when describing something easy. Instead, strive for fresh and original comparisons to make your writing more engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is like" functions as a comparative expression, used to draw parallels between two different things. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid construction to create similes and analogies, helping to explain or illustrate a point by relating it to something more familiar.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it is like" is a versatile tool for creating comparisons and analogies in writing and speech. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's important to consider more formal alternatives for academic or professional settings. By using "it is like" effectively, you can enhance clarity, illustrate complex ideas, and engage your audience with relatable comparisons.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is similar to

A direct and simple way to express resemblance.

it is comparable to

Highlights that the two things being compared share similar qualities or characteristics.

it resembles

Formal alternative, emphasizing a strong similarity in appearance or nature.

it is analogous to

Highlights a similarity that allows for reasoning by analogy.

it is akin to

More formal and literary, suggesting a close relationship or parallel.

it shares traits with

Focuses on the common attributes or features between two subjects.

it mirrors

Implies a reflection or close correspondence between two things.

it parallels

Suggests a corresponding or similar course or development.

it evokes the same feeling as

Emphasizes the emotional or sensory experience of comparison.

it approximates

Suggests that one thing comes close to resembling another, but is not an exact match.

FAQs

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

"It is like" is used to make comparisons. For example, "Trying to explain this concept is like trying to herd cats".

What are some alternatives to "it is like"?

You can use alternatives such as "it resembles", "it is comparable to", or "it is similar to" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "it is like"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "it is like", especially when making a direct comparison or analogy.

How does the formality of "it is like" compare to other comparative phrases?

"It is like" is generally considered informal. More formal alternatives include phrases such as "it is akin to" or "it is analogous to".