like they do

USAGE SUMMARY

"like they do" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to compare a current action to a similar action that has been previously mentioned. For example, "I try to keep my kitchen clean, like they do in restaurants."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's like, "They do rock music".

Huffington Post

"Not like they do now".

The New York Times

Doesn't seem like they do!

University of California, Berkeley

"I cry just like they do.

The New York Times - Sports

Like they do in America?

The Guardian

Coffee and such, like they do today.

Columbia University

They don't talk like they do.

The New York Times

Just like they do the federal employees.

The New York Times

"Comebacks happen in business just like they do in sports".

The New York Times - Sports

You know, like they do in African countries.

The New York Times

Which is to say, like they do right now.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "like they do" to draw parallels between actions or behaviors, making sure the comparison is clear and relevant to your overall point. For example, instead of saying "They handle customer service well", try "They handle customer service well, like they do in luxury hotels".

Common error

Avoid using "like they do" when you are not actually drawing a comparison. For instance, don't say "They went to the store, like they do" if you're not contrasting it with a situation where they didn't go.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like they do" functions as a comparative conjunction, linking a description or action to a similar one performed by a previously mentioned group. Ludwig provides many examples that help understand its usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "like they do" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to draw comparisons between actions or behaviors. Ludwig AI validates its correctness, supported by numerous examples across reputable sources. While alternatives such as "as they do" exist, "like they do" maintains a neutral register suitable for most contexts. When using it, ensure you're making a clear and relevant comparison to avoid misuse. It's most frequently found in News & Media contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as they do

Uses "as" instead of "like", maintaining a similar comparative meaning.

just as they do

Emphasizes the equality or exactness of the comparison.

in the way they do

Adds emphasis on the manner or method of the action.

the same way they do

Highlights the identical nature of the actions being compared.

similarly to how they do it

More formal and elaborate way of expressing the comparison.

in a similar manner to them

Formal phrasing that highlights a likeness in the actions performed.

comparable to their actions

Focuses on the comparability of the actions, often in a more formal context.

after their fashion

A more idiomatic and slightly old-fashioned way of saying "like they do".

as is their custom

Focuses on the habitual or customary nature of the action.

as they are wont to do

An older, more literary way of saying "like they do", implying a habitual action.

FAQs

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

Use "like they do" to compare an action or behavior to that of a specific group. For example, "She manages her time efficiently, "like they do" at top consulting firms".

What are some alternatives to "like they do"?

You can use alternatives such as "as they do", "in the way they do", or "just as they do" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "like they do"?

Yes, "like they do" is grammatically correct and commonly used to make comparisons. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples of its use in reputable sources.

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

"Like they do" and "as they do" are often interchangeable, but "as" can sometimes sound more formal. The choice depends on the tone and style of your writing.