like an angel

USAGE SUMMARY

"like an angel" is a grammatically correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It is typically used as a simile to describe someone who is angelic or has a pure and innocent quality. Example: She glided into the room, her white dress flowing behind her, looking like an angel sent from above.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Roland Hayes, who sang like an angel, looks like an angel in a 1934 light-and-shadow likeness attributed to Johan Hagemeyer.

The New York Times - Arts

In action, how like an angel!

The New Yorker

"You're like an angel," I told him.

The New Yorker

SHEFFIELD, ENGLAND — He played like an angel.

The New York Times - Sports

She was like an angel.

The Guardian - Film

He looks like an angel.

The Guardian - Film

I feel like an angel".

The New York Times

He's like an angel, always smiling.

The New York Times

He said, "So you're like an angel".

The New Yorker

He even sang like an angel.

The New York Times

But she sings like an angel.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "like an angel" to create a vivid and positive comparison, emphasizing purity, innocence, or exceptional skill. For example, "She sings like an angel." Use it sparingly for maximum impact.

Common error

Avoid using "like an angel" in overly sentimental or predictable situations, as it can sound clichéd. Opt for more original comparisons to maintain freshness and engagement.

Linguistic Context

"Like an angel" functions primarily as a simile, a figure of speech that compares two unlike things using 'like' or 'as'. It is commonly used to ascribe qualities of purity, innocence, or exceptional skill to the subject being described. Ludwig shows many examples of its usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "like an angel" is a very common simile used to describe someone or something with qualities of purity, beauty, or exceptional skill. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and finds frequent use in contexts ranging from news and media to informal conversations. While its simplicity makes it accessible, it’s important to use it judiciously to avoid cliché. Alternatives such as "angelic" or "heavenly" may offer more nuance in formal settings. Understanding its purpose and potential pitfalls helps writers effectively employ this phrase in their work.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

angelic

This is a direct adjective form, meaning resembling or characteristic of an angel.

heavenly

Implies something is divine or supremely beautiful, like something from heaven.

pure as the driven snow

An idiom indicating complete innocence or purity.

virtuous

Highlights moral excellence and righteousness.

seraphic

Relates to seraphs, the highest order of angels, emphasizing purity and light.

saintly

Suggests exceptional goodness or holiness.

ethereal

Indicates something delicate, light, and seemingly not of this world.

divine

Suggests something is godly or supremely excellent.

godlike

Implies possessing qualities of a god, such as beauty or power.

innocent as a lamb

An idiom indicating complete innocence and naivety.

FAQs

How can I use "like an angel" in a sentence?

Use "like an angel" to describe someone or something that possesses qualities associated with angels, such as purity, beauty, or kindness. For instance, "She forgave him, acting "like an angel"."

What are some alternatives to saying "like an angel"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "angelic", "heavenly", or "pure as the driven snow" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "like an angel" in formal writing?

While "like an angel" is generally acceptable, it may be more suitable for creative or descriptive writing rather than strictly formal contexts. Consider more precise adjectives like "virtuous" or "seraphic" for formal tones.

When is it best to avoid using the phrase "like an angel"?

Avoid using "like an angel" in situations where it might sound overly sentimental or cliché. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact. Choose more original comparisons when possible.