or the like

USAGE SUMMARY

"or the like" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as an informal way to summarize something that is similar to the things already listed. For example, "There are many animals such as cats, dogs, hamsters, or the like".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Holder for a Stethoscope or the Like.

Harvard University

Frames & mountings for spectacles/goggles or the like, of mats.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Fraud connotes perjury, concealment, falsification, misrepresentation or the like.

Cornell University

(Formerly, people had spoken of "creative inhibition" or the like).

The New Yorker

I used to host podcasts or the like.

Harvard Business Review

There will be no alcohol bans or the like.

The Guardian - Sport

Neither side claims electoral fraud, dishonesty, or the like.

The New York Times

Looking to buy or sell Frames & mountings for spectacles/goggles or the like, of mats.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

How is this better than, say, a trough reflector or the like?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The top exporters of Frames & mountings for spectacles/goggles or the like, of mats.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Hurry there now, before an Ugg sample sale (or the like) takes its place.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "or the like" to smoothly indicate that a list is not exhaustive and that similar items are also included. This avoids unnecessary detail and keeps the writing concise.

Common error

Avoid using "or the like" excessively in formal documents. In situations that demand precision, it's better to provide a more exhaustive list or use a more formal equivalent such as "and so forth" or "and similar items".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "or the like" functions as a postpositive modifier, specifically an adjunct. It serves to indicate that the items mentioned are representative examples and that other similar items are also applicable but not explicitly listed. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

31%

Academia

27%

Wiki

24%

Less common in

Science

12%

Formal & Business

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "or the like" is a versatile phrase used to indicate that a list is not exhaustive and that other similar items are also relevant. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in news, media, and academic writing. While it is generally considered informal to neutral, it's advisable to use more formal alternatives like "and similar items" or "and so forth" in formal settings. Use it to keep your writing concise while implying inclusivity, but avoid overuse to maintain clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

And the like

A very close synonym, offering almost identical meaning and usage.

Or similar

Replaces the entire phrase with a simpler synonym indicating resemblance.

Or other such things

Similar to "or the like" but slightly more emphatic.

Or something similar

Adds emphasis on the similarity but with less precision about the exact nature.

Or equivalent

Specifies that the items are functionally the same, implying interchangeability.

Or analogous

Indicates a parallel or comparable relationship, often in a more abstract sense.

And so forth

A more formal way to indicate that the list continues with similar items.

Or comparable items

Highlights that the remaining items are of similar type or quality.

Or anything of that nature

Broadens the scope to include anything with similar characteristics.

Or words to that effect

Used when paraphrasing or suggesting a similar expression or statement.

FAQs

How do I use "or the like" in a sentence?

Use "or the like" at the end of a list to indicate that other similar items are also included but not explicitly mentioned. For example, "Bring snacks, drinks, /s/or+the+like for the picnic."

What can I say instead of "or the like"?

You can use alternatives like "or similar", "or something similar", or "and so forth" depending on the context.

Is "or the like" formal or informal?

"Or the like" is generally considered informal. In more formal writing, consider using alternatives such as "and similar items" or "and so on".

When should I avoid using "or the like"?

Avoid using "or the like" in contexts where precision is critical, such as legal documents or scientific reports. In these cases, it's better to be specific or use a more formal and precise alternative.