as
/æz/in the same way that; just as
He ran as fast as he could.
He ran with maximum speed.
Often used to compare two things or actions.
because; since
As it was raining, we stayed indoors.
We stayed indoors because it was raining.
Used to introduce a reason or cause.
when; at the time that
As I was leaving, I saw her.
I saw her when I was leaving.
Used to refer to a specific moment in time.
in the role or capacity of
She works as a doctor.
Her job is being a doctor.
Used to describe someone's job or function.
to the same extent or degree as
He is as tall as his brother.
His height is equal to his brother's.
Used for comparisons of equality.
Collocations
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Comparative Use
Use 'as' to compare two things of equal degree or quality, e.g., 'She is as tall as her sister.'
Causal Use
Use 'as' to introduce a reason or cause, e.g., 'As it was late, we went home.'
Temporal Use
Use 'as' to refer to a specific moment in time, e.g., 'As I walked in, the phone rang.'
⚡Gold Rule
Avoid Redundancy
Do not use 'as' redundantly in phrases like 'due to the fact that as'—simplify to 'because'.
📖Word Origin
Old English 'swā', from Proto-Germanic 'swē' (in the manner that).
📝Usage Notes
The word 'as' is highly versatile and can function as a conjunction, preposition, or adverb depending on context. It is commonly used in comparisons, causal relationships, and temporal expressions.