Like or As?

Like is a preposition. It should be followed by an object to make a prepositional phrase.

As is a conjunction. It should be followed by a clause containing a subject and a verb.

Incorrect: He runs like a gazelle does.
(Like is followed by a clause.)

Correct: He runs like a gazelle.

Correct: He runs as a gazelle does.

This is sometimes confusing because as occasionally is used with elliptical clauses which may resemble prepositional phrases.

Like is never used with clauses in standard English.


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