As vs. like: what’s the difference?
The short answer
As is often used to describe the role or function of someone or something, or to introduce clauses. Like is used to show similarity between two things, typically followed by a noun or pronoun, and is not usually used to introduce clauses.
What they have in common
Both as and like are used to make comparisons and to show similarities between things.
Examples
as
- She works as a teacher.
- Do it as I showed you.
- He acted as the leader of the group.
like
- She sings like a professional.
- He looks like his father.
- It feels like summer today.
Which one is more common?
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