likewise
LYK-wyz
Likewise (adv) means In the same way; similarly. Example: “She switched off her phone during the film, and I did likewise.”
adv
1
In the same way; similarly.
"She switched off her phone during the film, and I did likewise."
"Wash your hands before eating, and encourage the children to do likewise."
"He bowed to the judge, and the defendant did likewise."
2
Also; in addition.
"The hotel was spotless; the staff were likewise friendly and helpful."
"Tom enjoys hiking, and he likewise loves cycling in the hills."
"The soup was excellent, and the bread was likewise superb."
"Margaret enjoys playing tennis on Saturdays, Jeremy likewise."
How to use likewise
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA slightly formal way to say "the same" or "also."
Common pairings
do likewise
and likewise
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Etymology
From Middle English, a shortened form of "in lik wise" ("in like manner") — built from like plus -wise.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for likewise
See all rhymes for likewise →Frequently asked questions
What does “likewise” mean?
The word “likewise” means in the same way; similarly. In plain terms, a slightly formal way to say "the same" or "also.".
How do you pronounce “likewise”?
“Likewise” is pronounced LYK-wyz (/ˈlaɪkˌwaɪz/ in IPA).
How do you use “likewise” in a sentence?
Here is “likewise” used in a sentence: “He bowed to the judge, and the defendant did likewise.”
What part of speech is “likewise”?
“Likewise” is an adverb.
Where does the word “likewise” come from?
The word “likewise” comes from Middle English. From Middle English, a shortened form of "in lik wise" ("in like manner") — built from like plus -wise.
Is “likewise” a common word?
“Likewise” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “likewise” have?
“Likewise” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: in the same way; similarly.
What is the difference between likewise and similarly?
Both adverbs mean 'in the same way,' and as sentence connectors they are largely interchangeable: 'Sales rose in Europe; likewise/similarly, they grew in Asia.' Likewise has an extra conversational use as a one-word reply ('Nice to meet you.' 'Likewise.'), which similarly cannot do.
Is it polite to reply 'likewise'?
Yes. Replying 'likewise' is a friendly, slightly informal way of returning a sentiment, as when someone says 'Nice to meet you' or 'Good luck.' In very formal situations, a full sentence such as 'It's a pleasure to meet you too' can come across as warmer.
What is the difference between likewise and also?
Also simply adds information, while likewise adds it and signals that it mirrors what came before, meaning 'in the same way.' Likewise is the more formal of the two and is common in written English as a sentence connector.
Can likewise start a sentence?
Yes. As a linking adverb, likewise often opens a sentence and is followed by a comma: 'Likewise, the second experiment failed.' It connects the new sentence to the previous one by showing that the two situations are parallel.
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