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Session 53

Sam explains 4 uses of the word 'as' in this English In A Minute.

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    Activity 1
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Activity 1

4 ways to use 'as'

Have you ever wanted to know different ways to use 'as'? Find out with Sam in this English In A Minute.

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Sam

As is tiny, but mighty. You can use it in lots of different ways. So, let's have a look at four of them together.

You can use as - number one - to compare two people or things.

Tokyo is as big as Los Angeles. (more or less)

Number two: to describe somebody's job:

I used to work as a waitress. (And no, I wasn't very good),

or to describe something's function:

Did you know that you can use olive oil as shampoo?

Me neither!

Number three: to say that something happened at the same time as something else.

You rang me just as i was texting you.

Number four: to give a reason like 'because'.

As the sun is shining today, I think I might go for some fresh air after this.

And as you have hopefully been learning something new, why don't you practice one of these in the comments now?

Good night!

4 ways to use 'as' 

1. Comparison

You can use as to make a comparison between two things or people.

  • He is as tall as his brother.
  • That is not as fun as the first game.

2. Function or job

As can be used to describe somebody's job or the function of something.

  • He works as a nurse.
  • You can use coconut oil as cooking oil.

3. Simultaneous actions

You can use as to say that something happened at the same time as something else.

  • I was just thinking about you as you rang.
  • The doorbell rang as I was cooking.

4. Reason

As can be used like 'because' to give a reason. It is more formal.

  • I didn't go to the party as I was tired.
  • I forgot to send the email as I was stressed.

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