like he asked

USAGE SUMMARY

"like he asked" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is often used to indicate that someone did something in the manner or way that another person had requested or suggested. Example: "He crossed his arms and stared at her, just like he asked."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

"What's this guy like?" he asked.

The New York Times - Magazine

"What didn't you like?" he asked.

The New Yorker

"Are there foods that Jews don't like?" he asked in reply.

The New Yorker

"Well, what lies would you like?" he asked with an insouciance that has become his trademark in fending off impenitent journalists.

The New York Times - Sports

"What would you like?" he asked, "some kind of shrinking violet at the helm of government?" Heavens no, we were invited to respond.

The Guardian

"How do you like?" he asked, "Spicy, or not so?" I told him to make it as he thought it should be.

The New York Times - Food

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

You like?" He asks.

The Guardian - Travel

"What music do you like?" he asks.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"Are there any of my songs you don't like?" he asks.

The Guardian

"Which poster do you like?" he asks Stallone, who is staring intently at the pictures.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Now, there's something about Outlook that you don't like?" he asks, referring to Microsoft's electronic-mail software.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "like he asked", ensure the context clearly indicates a previous request or instruction from a specific individual. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "like he asked" when simply describing a similarity without an explicit request. Ensure a direct request preceded the action you're describing to maintain grammatical accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like he asked" functions as an adverbial clause or phrase modifying a verb, describing the manner in which an action was performed. It indicates that the action was carried out in accordance with a request made by a specific person.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Formal & Business

34%

Science

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "like he asked" is a phrase used to indicate that an action was performed in accordance with a previous request, as validated by Ludwig. While grammatically correct and understandable, its frequency is relatively rare. The phrase is most commonly encountered in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure a clear preceding request is evident to maintain clarity. Consider using alternatives such as "as he requested" or "according to his request" for added formality or specificity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as he requested

Replaces "asked" with "requested", offering a slightly more formal tone.

as he instructed

Substitutes "asked" with "instructed", conveying a sense of authority.

according to his request

Uses a prepositional phrase to convey compliance with a request.

in accordance with his instructions

Emphasizes adherence to specific instructions, adding formality.

in the manner he specified

Focuses on the method prescribed by the other party.

as per his direction

Utilizes "per" to signify compliance with a directive, creating a business-like tone.

just like he told me to

Adds a personal element, specifying the recipient of the instruction.

following his lead

Implies guidance and direction rather than a specific request.

in compliance with his demand

Highlights obedience to a demand, suggesting a lack of choice.

pursuant to his inquiry

Offers a formal and legalistic tone emphasizing the origination in a question or investigation.

FAQs

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

Use "like he asked" to indicate that someone acted in accordance with a previous request. For example, "He organized the files alphabetically, "like he asked"".

What is a more formal alternative to "like he asked"?

More formal alternatives include "as he requested", "according to his instructions", or "in compliance with his request".

Is there a difference between "as he asked" and "like he asked"?

While both phrases are similar, "as he asked" directly indicates the manner of the request. "Like he asked" implies the action mirrored or followed the request. The difference is slight, but "as he asked" might be more precise in certain contexts.

Can "like he asked" be used for indirect requests or suggestions?

While possible, it's best to use "like he asked" for explicit, direct requests. For indirect requests, consider using phrases such as "as he implied" or "following his suggestion".