this is like

USAGE SUMMARY

"This is like..." is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to introduce a comparison. For example: "This is like the same thing that happened yesterday."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"This is like family".

The New York Times

This is like Christmas.

The New Yorker

This is like that.

The New York Times

This is, like, Depression".

The New Yorker

"This is, like, new".

The New Yorker

"This is like your degree.

The New York Times - Sports

"This is like Soviet censorship.

The New York Times

"This is like my sweatpants".

The New Yorker

"This is like discovering gold.

The New Yorker

"This is like mental war.

The New York Times

"This is like an edit".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "this is like", ensure the comparison is clear and relevant to avoid confusing your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "this is like" with comparisons that are too broad or lack specificity. Instead, provide enough detail to make the comparison meaningful and insightful.

Linguistic Context

"This is like" functions as a comparative phrase, linking a subject to something else for illustrative purposes. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and serves to draw parallels or analogies, enriching understanding through relatable associations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Science

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"This is like" is a common phrase used to draw comparisons, making it easier to understand new or complex concepts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use, although it is generally considered informal. While very common in news, media, and general conversation, it's less frequently found in formal academic or scientific writing, where more precise language is preferred. When using "this is like", ensure your comparison is clear and relevant to avoid confusion. For formal contexts, consider using alternatives such as "this is similar to" or "this resembles".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this is similar to

Adds the preposition 'to' for grammatical correctness and clarity.

this resembles

Changes the phrasing to a more formal verb indicating similarity.

this is analogous to

Emphasizes a deeper connection or similarity in function or structure.

this is comparable to

Replaces 'like' with a more formal adjective suggesting a comparison.

this parallels

Suggests that this situation runs alongside and is similar to another.

this equates to

Uses a verb that suggests an equal value or outcome.

this is on par with

Suggests the same level or quality.

this mirrors

Implies a direct reflection or close resemblance.

this is in the same vein as

Implies a similarity in style or character.

this is akin to

Uses a more archaic term 'akin' to suggest similarity.

FAQs

How can I use "this is like" in a sentence?

You can use "this is like" to introduce a comparison that helps explain or illustrate a point. For example, "This is like trying to herd cats" to describe a chaotic situation.

What are some alternatives to "this is like"?

Alternatives include phrases such as "this is similar to", "this resembles", or "this is comparable to", depending on the level of formality and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "this is like" in formal writing?

While "this is like" is grammatically correct, it is generally considered informal. In formal writing, it's better to use more precise and formal alternatives such as "this is analogous to" or "this equates to".

How does "this is like" differ from "this is as"?

"This is like" is used to draw a comparison, while "this is as" is typically used to state a direct quality or characteristic. For example, "This is like a dream" (comparison) versus "This is as good as it gets" (statement of quality).