Little things make the difference between good writing and great writing. Noticing the subtle differences between using words like “like” and “such as” can make a bigger impact in writing than some people realize.
While most people will not take notice and feel the words are interchangeable, there is a difference that grammarians and hobby writers alike can appreciate, especially since understanding when to use each is not difficult and makes for more precise writing.
The Difference Between Like and Such As
It’s something most people do not even think about. They sound interchangeable. And they are, almost. Other than sounding and looking different, the two imply different things.
- Jane likes furry creatures like rats.
- Jane likes furry creatures such as rats.
Read both sentences aloud. The first sentence using “like” implies that Jane likes furry creatures similar to rats, but maybe she does not actually like rats. Maybe she only likes gerbils and hamsters. Using like instead of such as uses a simile to make a comparison. Using such as gives a specific example.
In the second example, Jane actually likes rats. Very subtle difference, but a difference that should be noted by writers.
Punctuation of Like and Such As
The word like almost never requires any punctuation, unless it falls in a rare situation because of another part of the sentence. The word itself does not call for a comma or colon.
Many writers feel the need to insert a comma or colon before or after the use of such as. This is not necessary unless a comma is required for another reason within the sentence.
- Jack eats ice cream every night and often adds sweets such as chocolate chips, sprinkles or caramel.
- Jill loves horror films, such as Psycho, The Sixth Sense and The Ring, but she often times can’t sleep for a week after watching them.
In the first example, no comma or colon is needed with the use of such as. In the second example, a comma is required before such as because the entire phrase “such as Psycho, The Sixth Sense and The Ring” is considered an appositive, meaning it can be removed from the sentence and the sentence would still make sense.
Remember that the difference between like and such as is subtle. If you are at a loss of which to use, think whether you are writing about the actual object, place or person or just comparing the object, place or person to similar things.
- I can't stand customers like Mr. Bob. They feel so entitled.
- I can't stand customers such as Mr. Bob. They feel so entitled.
In the above examples, there really is no noticeable difference. In the first example, maybe Mr. Bob no longer visits the store but customers like him do. Maybe Mr. Bob died. In the second example it is clear that Mr. Bob is one of the customers the speaker can't stand.
And if all else fails, remember that neither choice will leave your readers confused. Like and such as are almost interchangeable.
Megan B. Wyatt - Megan B. Wyatt has a BA in English, edits fiction manuscripts and currently works as an entertainment reporter in Lafayette, Louisiana.
Join the Conversation