like we act

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "like we act" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compare someone's behavior or actions to those of a group or individual, often in a casual or conversational context. Example: "In this situation, we should respond like we act when faced with similar challenges in the past."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"They act like we act, according to the rules set up after 1973," he said respectfully.

The New York Times

My friends, we cannot continue only loving the ones who look like us, who talk like us, who believe what we believe, and act like we act.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

"We look like them, we act like them, we talk like them".

The New York Times

"We look like them, we act like them, we talk like them". While the hits grew scarce and the record companies stopped calling in the mid-90's, the Smithereens still have a job to do.

The New York Times

We expect them to act more and more like adults, while we act more and more like children.

The New York Times - Health

"Because men like women and they are not available, so we act like women.

The Guardian

We act like we do, and we throw the word around like we do.

Huffington Post

"In church, we like to act like we know the Lord — like, buddy-buddy," he said.

The New Yorker

We act like a matchmaker".

The New York Times

We act like a big program".

The New Yorker

When we act like them, we lose.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "like we act" to draw parallels between current and past behaviors, creating a relatable comparison for your audience. This is effective in informal and conversational contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "like" when "as" is grammatically more appropriate for introducing a clause. For instance, instead of saying "Do like we act", say "Do as we act" when referring to a specific action as a directive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like we act" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb by describing the manner in which an action is performed. It introduces a comparison, indicating that the action should be carried out in a way that mirrors previous or typical behavior. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

17%

Academia

16%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "like we act" serves to compare current actions with established behaviors. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is usable in written English. While grammatically correct, it's more common in informal contexts. For formal writing, consider alternatives such as "as we behave". The phrase is primarily found in News & Media sources, suggesting a neutral register. Understanding these nuances helps in choosing the most appropriate phrasing for effective communication. Remember to use "like" to draw parallels and avoid confusing it with "as" when introducing a clause.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as we behave

This is a more formal and direct way of saying "like we act", simply replacing the descriptive "like" with "as".

the way we act

Similar to "as we behave" but slightly more conversational, focusing on the method of action.

in the manner we act

This alternative adds emphasis on the manner or way in which the actions are performed.

similarly to how we act

This emphasizes the similarity in action, highlighting a comparison.

consistent with our actions

Focuses on maintaining consistency in behavior, implying a standard or expectation.

as our actions dictate

This suggests that actions are a direct consequence of a set of principles or guidelines.

following our usual behavior

Highlights that the actions are typical and habitual.

mirroring our actions

Emphasizes the act of reflecting or imitating previous behavior.

reflecting our conduct

This emphasizes the actions are a reflection of a code of conduct or established standards.

emulating our behavior

Suggests actively trying to imitate or copy the behavior.

FAQs

What's a more formal way to say "like we act"?

For a more formal tone, you could use phrases such as "as we behave" or "in the manner we act".

How can I use "like we act" in a sentence?

You can use "like we act" to compare current actions to past behaviors. For example, "In this situation, we should respond like we act when faced with similar challenges in the past."

Is there a difference between "like we act" and "as we act"?

While both are similar, "as we act" is generally considered more grammatically correct in formal writing when introducing a clause. "Like we act" is more common in informal speech.

What can I say instead of "like we act" to emphasize consistency?

To emphasize consistency, consider using phrases such as "consistent with our actions" or "following our usual behavior".