by R. S. Karunaratne

Correct use of 'as' and 'like'

Many students and even some adults use 'as' and 'like' indiscriminately. So, you hear some incorrect sentences like the following:

My father works like a clerk. (use 'as')

He works as a bull! (use 'like')

'As' can be used to say that something happened while something else was happening.

The people cheered their leader as he stepped out of the plane.

As I was writing an essay, the bell rang.

Malka wept bitterly as she told her story.

'As' is used to give a reason for doing something.

You may drive the car,as you have a licence .

'As' you know, I don't like to wait in the queue.

As he is a fool, you can take him for a ride!

'As' can be used to compare two things, or people,

In this construction we use 'as and as'.

Amanda is as tall as her father.

She answered the questions as best as she could.

Meet me as soon as possible.

'As' is sometimes used to talk about appearances.

You sound as though you have got a good knowledge of the subject.

He talks as if he knows everything.

She looked at me as if I were a stranger.

'As' can stand for 'because'.

As you are late, you have to apply for leave.

'Like' is used to talk about things or people that please you.

How do you like my new house?

I like you very much.

Do you like fish?

'Like' can be used to talk about activities you enjoy.

Shanthi likes reading in buses.

Gowry likes to gossip with her neighbours.

I like to collect stamps.

'Like' is used to talk about what you prefer to do.

Namal likes to get up early in the morning.

I would like to read your essay.

The director likes to interview all the applicants.

'Like' can be used to say what you prefer other people to do.

The new director liked us calling him 'Sir'.

I'd like you to do medicine instead of law.

'Like' is used to talk about similarities between people things or actions.

Your car is just like mine.

You look like your father.

'Like' is used in certain set phrases.

Would you like a cup of coffee?

How do you like his speech?

You can have a short break now, if you like.

What I like about Sam is his sense of humour.

I don't like the way you drive.

What's your classroom like?

Do it like this.

Starters:

How to use an encyclopedia

A n encyclopedia is a book or set of books that gives you information on many subjects. (The word 'encyclopedia' is also spelt encyclopaedia'). The facts are arranged for reference, usually in alphabetical order.

An encyclopedia contains short and clear articles on many kinds of subjects. As all the information cannot be given in one book, an encyclopedia usually comes in many volumes which are numbered.

Some useful hints on the use of an encyclopedia:

If you seek information on a particular subject, first refer to the index which is usually a separate volume.

If the subject is a person, look up the person's last name to find information about him. For instance, if you wish to gather some information about William Shakespeare, refer to 'Shakespeare'.

If you find it difficult to get the information, try to think of another subject to look up. For instance, if you want to find something about a folk musician, refer to 'music' 'folk music' or 'folk singing'.

Sometimes, you may not find all the information in one volume. Be prepared to refer to several other volumes if the need arises.

An encyclopedia is a very useful set of books which should be in your private library. As the price of an encyclopedia is prohibitive (very high), you can refer to it in your school or public library.As these books are expensive and precious, never tear the pages or disfigure them when you use an encyclopedia.

Articles in an encyclopedia are called 'entries'. The title of an article is called an 'entry word'. An entry word is usually printed in bold type.

At the top of encyclopedia pages you will find 'guide words.' The alphabetical order of guide words and entry words will help you to find the information you want.