like children

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "like children" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare someone's behavior or attitude to that of children, often implying innocence, naivety, or simplicity. Example: "They approached the situation like children, full of wonder and curiosity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Eventually, she'd like children.

The New York Times

Maybe she just doesn't like children.

The New Yorker

At some point she'd like children, dogs.

The Guardian

No it's like children.

Vice

This breed usually does not like children.

WikiHow

Sometimes people do not like children.

WikiHow

They are like children.

The New Yorker

They are laughing like children.

The New York Times - Arts

Maybe houses are like children.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

The ideas have to come out like children.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

"To treat us like children..

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "like children" to draw a comparison to the innocence, naivety, or playfulness associated with childhood, but be mindful of the context to avoid sounding condescending.

Common error

Avoid using "like children" in contexts where a more nuanced or specific comparison is needed. Overusing it can simplify complex situations and miss critical details.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "like children" is as a prepositional phrase functioning as an adverbial modifier. It modifies a verb or clause by describing how something is done or experienced, drawing a comparison to the behavior or state of children. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples where the phrase adds descriptive detail to actions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Reference

7%

Encyclopedias

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "like children" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to draw comparisons to the characteristics and behaviors associated with childhood. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it functions as an adverbial modifier, adding descriptive detail to actions. While grammatically correct and frequently used, it's important to consider the context and potential implications, as the comparison can range from evoking innocence and wonder to suggesting immaturity or lack of seriousness. It is most commonly found in news and media and wiki sources. When writing, be mindful to avoid oversimplifying situations or being condescending, using alternative phrases like "childlike" when a more nuanced expression is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

childlike

This is a single-word adjective that describes someone or something exhibiting qualities typically associated with children such as innocence or naivety.

with the naivety of a child

Focuses on the lack of experience and simplicity in understanding, characteristic of a child.

as innocent as children

This alternative emphasizes the innocence associated with children, using 'innocent' as the key descriptor.

as playful as kids

Emphasizes the playfulness and energy commonly associated with children.

with childlike wonder

This alternative highlights the wonder and amazement typical of children.

behaving like youngsters

Uses 'youngsters' to describe behavior reminiscent of young people, focusing on energy and playfulness.

in a childish manner

This refers to acting in a way that is immature or silly, similar to how children might behave.

like toddlers

This comparison specifically relates to very young children, emphasizing immaturity or dependence.

acting like adolescents

Compares behavior to that of teenagers, often implying awkwardness or rebellion.

reminiscent of childhood

This highlights the nostalgic aspect of behaviours or feelings related to childhood.

FAQs

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

You can use "like children" to compare the behavior of adults to that of children, often implying innocence or naivety. For example, "They approached the problem "like children", without any preconceived notions".

What's a good alternative to saying "like children"?

Depending on the context, you could use "childlike", "with childlike wonder", or "in a childish manner" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to compare adults' behavior to that of children using "like children"?

Yes, it can be appropriate, but consider the implications. It can suggest innocence, naivety, or playfulness, but it can also be condescending if not used carefully. Make sure it aligns with the overall tone and intent of your writing.

Which is more accurate, describing someone as "childlike" or saying they behave "like children"?

Both can be accurate, but "childlike" is a direct adjective, while "behaving like children" is a comparison. "Childlike" generally implies positive qualities like innocence and wonder, whereas "behaving like children" can sometimes suggest immaturity or lack of seriousness.