spoken like

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "spoken like" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone has expressed something in a manner typical of a certain group or style of speaking. Example: "He always has a way of putting things that is so insightful; he really speaks like a true philosopher."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Spoken like a veteran.

The New York Times

Spoken like a merchant.

The New York Times

Spoken like a man.

The New York Times - Books

Spoken like a Disney.

The Economist

Spoken like a true recruiter.

The New York Times - Sports

Spoken like a true sommelier.

The New York Times - Food

Spoken like a good teammate.

The New York Times

Spoken like a true survivor.

Independent

Spoken like a rock star.

The New York Times

Spoken like a true Dutchman.

The New Yorker

Spoken like a true Sagittarius.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "spoken like" to add color and character to your writing by attributing a particular style of expression to a specific type of person or profession.

Common error

Avoid using "spoken like" with overused stereotypes, as it can make your writing sound unoriginal or even offensive. Instead, strive for unique and insightful connections.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spoken like" serves as a discourse marker, attributing a particular style of speech or sentiment to a specific group or individual. Ludwig examples show it connecting a statement to a recognizable archetype or role. According to Ludwig AI, it follows standard grammar rules.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "spoken like" is a versatile discourse marker used to attribute a style of speaking or sentiment to a particular group or individual. As Ludwig AI confirms, it follows standard grammar rules and is widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, care should be taken to avoid using it with overused clichés. Alternatives like "sounds like" or "in the style of" can provide nuanced variations. Overall, "spoken like" is a valuable tool for adding character and context to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Sounds like

Focuses on the auditory aspect of the expression, implying a recognizable tone or manner.

In the style of

Highlights the imitation of a particular person or genre's style.

Reminiscent of

Emphasizes that the statement brings to mind a certain figure or archetype.

Reflective of

Indicates that the statement mirrors the thoughts or values of someone.

Typical of

Highlights that the statement is a common or expected expression from a particular person or group.

Expressing oneself as

Conveys a very similar meaning to "spoken like" with a change in structure.

Reflecting the sentiments of

Describes that the phrase is consistent with someone's feeling.

As someone would say

Highlights someone that would say something similar.

In the words of

Attributes the expression more formally to a specific person.

Echoing the thoughts of

Highlights that the statement is close to someone's thoughts.

FAQs

How can I use "spoken like" in a sentence?

Use "spoken like" to attribute a way of speaking or an opinion to a specific group or type of person. For example, "That's what I would do, "spoken like" a true programmer".

What does "spoken like a true" mean?

It means that someone is speaking or expressing themselves in a way that is typical or characteristic of the type of person that follows. E.g. "Spoken like a true leader".

Is there a more formal alternative to "spoken like"?

While "spoken like" is generally acceptable, a more formal alternative could be "in the manner of" or "reminiscent of". For instance, instead of ""spoken like" a seasoned diplomat", you might say "expressed in the manner of a seasoned diplomat".

Can "spoken like" be used sarcastically?

Yes, "spoken like" can be used sarcastically to imply that someone is conforming to a stereotype or behaving in a way that is predictable or cliché. The tone and context would need to make the sarcasm clear.