Like and as

 "Like" and "as" are both words used to make comparisons in English. However, they are used in slightly different ways.

"Like" is a preposition and is used to compare nouns or pronouns. It is followed by a noun or pronoun that the subject is similar to. Here are some examples:

• She sings like an angel.
• He looks like his father.
• I feel like a million dollars.

"As" is a conjunction and is used to compare clauses or phrases. It is followed by a clause or phrase that describes the way in which the subject is similar to something else. Here are some examples:

• She sings as if she were an angel.
• He looks as his father did when he was young.
• I feel as though I have won the lottery.

Here is a chart that summarizes the differences between "like" and "as":

Word	Use	Example
Like	Compares nouns or pronouns	She runs like a cheetah.
As	Compares clauses or phrases	She runs as if she were a cheetah.

Note that "as" can also be used as a preposition to compare nouns or pronouns, but this use is less common than using "as" as a conjunction.

To help make the differences between "like" and "as" clearer, here are some exercises:

1. Choose the correct word to complete the sentence:

a) She looks __ her mother. (like/as) b) He sings __ a professional. (like/as) c) They work __ they are on a mission. (like/as) d) She talks __ she is the boss. (like/as) e) The sky looks __ it's going to rain. (like/as)

2. Rewrite the following sentences using the correct word:

a) She dances as if she were a ballerina. --> ____________________________________ b) The flowers smell like roses. --> __________________________________________ c) He runs as fast as a cheetah. --> __________________________________________ d) She sings like a bird. --> _______________________________________________ e) They act as if they own the place. --> ______________________________________

3. Write a paragraph comparing two things or people using both "like" and "as." Include at least 5 sentences.

Example: My sister is like a ray of sunshine. She is always cheerful and bright, even on the gloomiest of days. She sings like a nightingale and dances as if she were a ballerina. She is also as smart as a whip and works as hard as a bee. Even though we are different in many ways, I admire her like a hero and love her as a sister.

I hope these exercises and examples help you understand the differences between "like" and "as" and how to use them correctly in comparisons.