A1preposition 1K

As

UK /["/əz//æz/"]/ US /["/əz//æz/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

used to describe somebody/something appearing to be somebody/something else

Listen to definition

In simple words: in the same way or manner

Examples

• They were all dressed as clowns.
• The bomb was disguised as a package.
• She works as a courier.
• Treat me as a friend.
• I respect him as a doctor.
• You can use that glass as a vase.
• The news came as a shock.
• She had been there often as a child *(= when she was a child)*.

Usage notes

Used for comparisons or to indicate a role. It's appropriate in formal and informal contexts. Avoid using 'as' in place of 'like' in informal speech.

Grammar pattern

as + clause

Memory hint

Think of 'as' like a bridge connecting two ideas.

Collocations

• as fast as
• as good as
• as long as

Synonyms

• like
• similarly
• equally
• in the same way

Antonyms

• unlike
• dissimilar

Common mistakes

• 'As' vs 'like': Confusing when to use in comparisons.
• Incorrect placement in complex sentences.
• Using 'as' with a noun without a proper structure.