"Exploring Usage Preferences: A Guide for Scholars - 'Like' vs. 'Such As'"
Refresh your understanding on 'like' and 'such as':
When it comes to research writing, achieving clarity and precision in your language choices can make all the difference. Two phrases commonly used for making comparisons or providing examples are 'like' and 'such as'. Let's take a closer look at when to use each and examples of their appropriate usage.
Key Differences
- 'Like' is more casual and tends to be used in speech, while 'such as' is formal and suitable for academic writing.
- 'Like' is used to draw comparisons between two entities, whereas 'such as' introduces examples that support or clarify broader concepts or ideas.
Using 'Like'
'Like' is best used to compare or relate two things by emphasizing their similarities:
- "The graphs show a trend similar to a bell-shaped curve (not 'The graphs are like a bell-shaped curve')," indicating a pattern akin to a normal distribution.
Using 'Such As'
'Such as' is invaluable when presenting specific instances or examples to illustrate a concept:
- "This phenomenon can be observed in various scientific disciplines, such as physics and biology."
Balancing Comparisons and Examples
- "There are various ways in which governments can combat climate change, like implementing regulations to reduce emissions or launching initiatives to promote renewable energy solutions (not '...like solar power, wind energy, and hydropower')."
- "The research findings are supported by evidence from participants across various professions, such as engineers, teachers, and doctors."
Keeping it Formal
Though 'like' might seem harmless in everyday conversation, its use can appear casual and informal in academic writing. Instead, opt for formal alternatives when crafting research papers:
- "The phenomena of heavy traffic is reminiscent of earlier studies (not 'The phenomena of heavy traffic is like earlier studies')."
In conclusion, knowing when to use 'like' and 'such as' in academic writing is essential to ensure you build a clear and concise argument supported by relevant examples. By following our guidelines, you can sharpen your research writing skills and come across as a truly diligent and insightful researcher!
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Consistency in academic writing is key to achieving clarity and precision, as the overuse or misuse of phrases like 'like' can detract from a scholarly tone. By understanding the differences between 'like' and 'such as', one can balance comparisons and examples more effectively, leading to a more polished and professional overall impression.
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