like they are

USAGE SUMMARY

"like they are" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is used to compare one thing or action to another, particularly when discussing similarities or traits. An example sentence using "like they are" could be: "The children played with the new toy like they were professional athletes, jumping and twisting with ease." This sentence compares the children's movements to those of professional athletes, showing their skill and fluidity.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Women can dress the way they like; they are free".

The New York Times

Are they just like they are before?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Are the jokes told like they are jokes?

WikiHow

It sounds like they are.

The New York Times

We feel like they are.

The New York Times - Magazine

Just like they are now.

The New York Times

Australia looks like they are tiring.

The New York Times

"The Sunnis feel like they are marginalized.

The New York Times

They feel like they are imposing.

Harvard University

"They feel like they are unwanted.

The Guardian

"It's not like they are morally bad.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "like they are", ensure the comparison is clear and logical. Avoid ambiguity by specifying what is being compared to what.

Common error

Avoid using "like they are" when the subjects being compared are not truly comparable. For instance, don't say "He runs like they are flying" unless you're comparing him to flying entities.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like they are" functions primarily as a comparative conjunction, linking two clauses to illustrate a similarity or likeness. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in various contexts to draw parallels between different subjects or situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Academia

20%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Science

14%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "like they are" is a versatile conjunction used for making comparisons across a wide range of contexts. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently used, with its primary function being to draw parallels between different subjects or situations. Its register leans towards neutral to informal, and while it appears in academic and scientific sources, it is most prevalent in news and media. When using the phrase, ensure the comparison is clear and logical to avoid ambiguity. Remember the purpose of this tool is to help illustrate a point or convey a specific impression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

just as they are

Emphasizes the acceptance or lack of need for change.

the way they are

Highlights acceptance of the current state without necessarily implying comparison.

in their current state

Similar to "as they stand", but with a stronger emphasis on a temporary or changeable condition.

as they stand

Focuses on the current condition or state, offering a slightly more formal tone.

such as they are

Suggests a degree of qualification or potential inadequacy in the thing being described.

in their present form

Emphasizes the existing structure or appearance, suitable for descriptive contexts.

as they exist

Stresses the factual existence or reality of something, often used in philosophical or analytical discussions.

as things are

Shifts the focus to the overall situation or circumstances, rather than specific entities.

in the condition they are

More descriptive and less idiomatic, suitable for technical or detailed explanations.

as currently constituted

Suggests a more formal arrangement or established structure.

FAQs

How can I use "like they are" in a sentence?

Use "like they are" to draw comparisons between actions, states, or appearances. For example: "They treat each other "like they are" family."

What's a more formal way to say "like they are"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases such as "in their current state" or "as they stand" to convey a similar meaning with a more elevated tone.

Is it always necessary to explicitly state what's being compared when using "like they are"?

While not always mandatory, clarity is key. Ensure the context makes the comparison evident to avoid confusion. If there's ambiguity, specify what's being compared.

What's the difference between "as they are" and "like they are"?

"As they are" often describes something in its existing condition, while "like they are" usually makes a comparison. For example, "We accept them as they are" versus "They behave "like they are" celebrities."