by Dr. Radut

As, Like, Phrasal Verbs, and More Quiz

In English, mastering the use of key grammar structures can greatly enhance your ability to communicate effectively. In this guide, we will explore the different uses of "as" and "like," how to form and answer questions using "like," the importance of phrasal verbs, and the proper use of infinitives and gerunds. Along the way, we'll provide plenty of examples to make each concept clearer and easier to understand.

As vs. Like: Understanding the Difference

The words "as" and "like" are commonly used to compare things, but they are used in different ways depending on the structure of the sentence.

Using "As":

"As" is used to show a role or function, or when two things are being compared in terms of a specific characteristic. It can also be used to describe the way something happens.

  • "He works as a teacher." (Describing his role)
  • "She sings as beautifully as a professional singer." (Comparing how well she sings)
  • "Do it as I showed you." (Describing the manner of doing something)

Using "Like":

"Like" is used to show similarity. It is often followed by a noun or pronoun and means "similar to" or "in the same way as."

  • "He runs like a cheetah." (Showing similarity to a cheetah)
  • "This tastes like chocolate."
  • "She looks like her mother."

Remember: "As" is usually followed by a subject and a verb, while "like" is followed by a noun or pronoun.

Questions with "Like": Asking About Preferences and Descriptions

The word "like" is often used in questions, especially when asking for descriptions or preferences. The structure and meaning of the question can change depending on how "like" is used.

Asking for Descriptions: "What is ... like?"

  • "What is your teacher like?" (Asking for a description of their personality)
  • "What was the weather like yesterday?" (Asking for a description of the weather)

Asking About Preferences: "Do you like ...?"

  • "Do you like pizza?" (Asking if someone enjoys pizza)
  • "Does she like to travel?" (Asking if traveling is enjoyable for her)

These questions are essential in daily conversations when talking about people’s preferences or describing experiences.

Phrasal Verbs: Essential for Everyday English

Phrasal verbs consist of a verb combined with a preposition or adverb, and they often have a meaning that is different from the individual words. They are widely used in spoken and written English, and mastering them is essential for fluency.

Examples of Common Phrasal Verbs:

  • Look after: "She looks after her younger brother." (To take care of)
  • Give up: "He gave up smoking last year." (To quit or stop doing something)
  • Put off: "We put off the meeting until next week." (To postpone)
  • Take off: "The plane took off an hour late." (To leave the ground)
  • Run into: "I ran into an old friend at the store." (To meet by chance)

Learning phrasal verbs is challenging because their meanings often cannot be guessed from the individual words. Practice with context is key to becoming familiar with them.

Infinitive and Gerund: Forms of Verbs in Different Contexts

Verbs in English can appear in two forms: the infinitive (to + verb) and the gerund (verb + ing). Understanding when to use each form is crucial for sentence structure and meaning.

The Infinitive: The infinitive form (to + verb) is often used to express purpose, after certain verbs, or in expressions where the action is an intention.

  • "I want to learn Spanish." (Expressing intention)
  • "She hopes to get a promotion soon."
  • "We stopped to rest for a while." (Expressing purpose)

The Gerund: The gerund (verb + ing) functions like a noun and is used after certain verbs, prepositions, and as the subject or object of a sentence.

  • "I enjoy swimming." (After a verb)
  • "She is good at painting." (After a preposition)
  • "Running is a great way to stay fit." (As the subject of the sentence)

Some verbs can be followed by either the infinitive or the gerund, but the meaning may change:

  • "I stopped smoking." (I quit the habit of smoking.)
  • "I stopped to smoke." (I paused what I was doing in order to smoke.)

Quiz: Test Your Understanding

Now that you have reviewed "as" and "like," phrasal verbs, and the use of infinitives and gerunds, it's time to test your knowledge. Try to answer the following questions:

  1. Complete the sentence: "He works ____ a manager."
  2. Which phrasal verb means "to take care of": "look after" or "give up"?
  3. Choose the correct form: "I enjoy ____ (to play/playing) tennis on weekends."
  4. Fill in the blank: "What does your friend look ____?"

This quiz is suitable for learners at an intermediate to advanced level, helping you reinforce these essential grammar concepts.