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conj A1 Beginner Very common

as

uhz

As (conj) means used to compare two things that are equal, alike, or happening at the same time. Example: “She sang as she worked.”

conj
1
Used to compare two things that are equal, alike, or happening at the same time.
"She sang as she worked."
"Do it as I showed you."
2
Because; since (giving a reason).
"As it was raining, we stayed inside."
prep
1
In the role or function of.
"He works as a teacher."
"She was dressed as a pirate for the party."
adv
1
Used before an adjective or adverb in comparisons of equal degree, typically paired with a second "as".
"This bag is as heavy as that one."

How to Use As

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishOne of English's most common small words — used for comparisons, timing, roles, and reasons.

Common pairings
as well as as long as as soon as as if

Word Forms

ases plural, asses plural

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Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

She sang _____ she worked.

Etymology

A shortened, worn-down form of Old English eallswā ("just so, all so"), which also gave us the word "also."

Origin: Old English

Related Words

Rhymes for as

See all rhymes for as →

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “as” mean?

The word “as” means used to compare two things that are equal, alike, or happening at the same time. In plain terms, one of English's most common small words — used for comparisons, timing, roles, and reasons.

How do you pronounce “as”?

“As” is pronounced uhz (/əz/ in IPA).

How do you use “as” in a sentence?

Here is “as” used in a sentence: “She sang as she worked.”

What is another word for “as”?

Words with a similar meaning to “as” include although, whilst and seeing that.

What part of speech is “as”?

Depending on how it is used, “as” can be a conjunction, a preposition and an adverb.

Where does the word “as” come from?

The word “as” comes from Old English. A shortened, worn-down form of Old English eallswā ("just so, all so"), which also gave us the word "also.".

Is “as” a common word?

“As” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.

How many meanings does “as” have?

“As” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: used to compare two things that are equal, alike, or happening at the same time.

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