like a ghost

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "like a ghost" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used in a variety of contexts to describe someone or something as appearing ethereal or insubstantial. Example: As she walked through the old, abandoned house, her footsteps echoed eerily through the empty halls, making her feel like a ghost haunting its abandoned corridors.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's like a ghost.

Independent

Bill was like a ghost".

The New Yorker

He's like a ghost".

The New York Times

"What is 'ghoulish'?" "Like a ghost".

The New Yorker

"It was like a ghost town".

The New York Times

She looked like a ghost, beckoning him.

The New Yorker

He is like a ghost.

The New York Times - Sports

She felt like a ghost.

The New York Times

"He's like a ghost here.

The Guardian

"It's like a ghost ship".

The New York Times

So she's like a ghost.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "like a ghost" to vividly describe someone or something that appears pale, insubstantial, or reminiscent of a past presence. This phrase adds a layer of depth and imagery to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "like a ghost" in purely literal descriptions where a more straightforward adjective would suffice. Reserve it for situations where the comparison to a ghost enhances the descriptive impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like a ghost" functions primarily as a simile, comparing someone or something to a ghost. It is an adverbial phrase that modifies a verb or adjective, enhancing the description. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its correct grammatical structure and common usage.

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 "like a ghost" is a prevalent simile used to describe something or someone appearing spectral, insubstantial, or reminiscent of a past presence. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently found in news and media contexts. While its primary function is to add vivid imagery to writing, overuse in literal contexts should be avoided. Related phrases, such as "resembling a phantom" or "akin to a specter", can offer alternative ways to convey a similar meaning. Understanding these nuances allows for more effective and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

akin to a specter

Uses 'specter' as a synonym for 'ghost', maintaining a similar level of formality and connotation.

appearing as a wraith

Wraith emphasizes a thin and faint appearance.

resembling a phantom

Focuses on the visual similarity to a phantom, emphasizing an eerie and unreal appearance.

behaving like a phantom

Highlights the manner of behaving, emphasizing the elusive and mysterious nature.

in a ghostly manner

Highlights the way an action is performed, emphasizing its ethereal quality.

evoking a spectral presence

Highlights the creation of a ghostly atmosphere or sensation.

like a shadow of its former self

Emphasizes a decline or diminished state, resembling the fading presence of a ghost.

as if from the beyond

Suggests an origin from a supernatural or otherworldly realm.

seeming like a haunting

Focuses on the idea of a lingering presence or memory that cannot be escaped.

reminiscent of a bygone era

Highlights a connection to the past, evoking a sense of nostalgia or faded glory.

FAQs

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

The phrase "like a ghost" can be used to describe someone or something that is pale, thin, or appears to be fading away. For example, "He looked "like a ghost" after being ill for weeks."

What are some alternatives to the phrase "like a ghost"?

Alternatives include "resembling a phantom", "akin to a specter", or "evoking a spectral presence". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "like a ghost" or should I use another preposition?

The phrase "like a ghost" is grammatically correct and widely accepted. There is no need to use another preposition in this context.

What does it mean when someone says a place is "like a ghost town"?

Saying a place is "like a ghost town" means it is deserted or abandoned, with few or no people present. It implies a sense of emptiness and desolation.