Like/as if
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I've been told to avoid using "like", but I see it used so often by native speakers that I can't help but think it's correct. Is it incorrect or is it just better to use "as if" or "as though"? Thanks a bunch!
Top answer
"like" for "as if" is common and widely accepted in everyday English. In formal English, use "as if". You can also use "as if" in informal contexts if you wish.
- "like" for "as if" is common and widely accepted in everyday English.
- In formal English, use "as if".
- You can also use "as if" in informal contexts if you wish.
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"like" for "as if" is common and widely accepted in everyday English. In formal English, use "as if". You can also use "as if" in informal contexts if you wish.
0See the usage note at https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/like
... the present objection to [like] is perhaps more heated than rational ...
Where I live I hear 'like' instead of 'as if' very often.
CJ
0NecrophagistI've been told to avoid using "like".
Maybe you were told that because you are one of those young people who, like, overuse 'like' in conversation, when you, like, say 'I'm like "Did you go out with Penny Black last night?" and he's like "Yeah ... did you know her pa's a philatelist?" and I'm like "What's she like, like?" and he's like "Duh! Nev
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