as you like it: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1informal, conversational
Quick answer
What does “as you like it” mean?
In whatever manner or to whatever degree you prefer.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
In whatever manner or to whatever degree you prefer; according to your choice or desire.
A phrase granting permission or indicating flexibility, often used to show indifference or to emphasize that the outcome is unimportant to the speaker. Also the title of a famous Shakespearean comedy, which popularized the phrase.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is very similar. The Shakespearean title reference may be slightly more culturally salient in British English, but the idiomatic phrase is common in both.
Connotations
Neutral to slightly informal in both. In the UK, it might be perceived as slightly more polite or whimsical. In the US, it's straightforward and casual.
Frequency
Common in both varieties. Slightly higher frequency in British English due to the cultural weight of the play's title.
Grammar
How to Use “as you like it” in a Sentence
IMPERATIVE + (as you like it)You can + VERB + (as you like it)Do it + (as you like it)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “as you like it” in a Sentence
adverb
British English
- You can arrange the furniture as you like it.
- We'll do the picnic as you like it.
American English
- Have the steak cooked as you like it.
- Just fix the report as you like it.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in very casual internal discussions about minor preferences (e.g., 'Schedule the meeting as you like it').
Academic
Extremely rare in formal writing. Might appear in literary criticism about Shakespeare's play.
Everyday
Common in social and domestic contexts when offering choices (e.g., food, arrangements, plans).
Technical
Not used.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “as you like it”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “as you like it”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “as you like it”
- Using 'as you like' without 'it' is more common, but 'as you like it' is a fixed phrase. Mistaking it for a question ('As you like it?').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is primarily used in informal, conversational contexts. In formal writing or speech, use alternatives like 'as you prefer' or 'according to your preference.'
Yes, 'as you like' is more common and interchangeable in most everyday situations. 'As you like it' is a slightly more fixed, idiomatic phrase.
No. In most daily usage, it does not refer to the play. The reference is only explicit when discussing literature or in a deliberately allusive context.
They are very similar. 'As you like it' often implies a method or manner ('do it as you like it'), while 'whatever you like' often refers to a specific object or choice ('choose whatever you like').
In whatever manner or to whatever degree you prefer.
As you like it: in British English it is pronounced /æz juː ˈlaɪk ɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /æz ju ˈlaɪk ɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “As you like it (Shakespeare title)”
- “Take it or leave it (related in indifference)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine Shakespeare handing you a script and saying, 'Change the ending AS YOU LIKE IT.' The phrase grants creative freedom.
Conceptual Metaphor
PREFERENCE IS A CHOICE OF PATH (you can take whichever path you like).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of the phrase 'as you like it' in modern conversation?