Explaining the difference between “AS” and “LIKE”
Most of the non-native students, especially competitive students in Pakistan, don’t understand properly the difference between “Like” and “As”. In English, both words are usually interchangeable and used synonymously in sentences. But, these words are not similar in their meanings and usages.
Let’s look at the example to understand their difference:
- Like your mother, Sarah also wants you to qualify for the civil services examination, CSS.
- As your brother, Ali wants you to qualify for the civil services examination, CSS.
In the very first sentence, the word “Like” is used, which means that “Sarah” is not your real mother, but holds a similar position. She can be your elder sister, your ant, your cousin, or your well-wisher, who maintains the same feelings as your mother has for you. In the second sentence, the word “As” is used, which means “Ali” is your real father.
