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'As' is a commonly-used preposition but that is not its only function. It can also be an adverb or a conjunction. In this lesson, we will learn all about it.
As is a short word but it can be a preposition, a conjunction, or an adverb. It is used in different contexts in English grammar.
1. The Preposition 'As', Functions
- 'As' shows the purpose;
- 'As' shows the function;
- 'As' shows the characteristic;
- 'As' shows the similarity;
- 'As' means 'for instance.'
Use
As is a preposition and can be used to show purpose, function, characteristics, etc. Take a look:
1.1 'As' Shows the Purpose
As is used to show the purpose of something for doing something. Look:
It is used
'As' shows the purpose of the document.
1.2 'As' Shows the Function
As is used to show the function of something or responsibility of someone. Like:
I work
You can use this place
1.3 'As' Shows the Characteristic
As is used to show the characteristic or the quality of something. Look:
This book is described
This is a film knows
1.4 'As' Shows the Similarity
As show similarity between two nouns and has a similar meaning to 'like'.
This pot is thick
He shouts at me (just)
1.5 'As' Means 'For Instance'
As is used instead of for instance, for example:
I have some pain relievers,
Position in a Sentence
2. The Conjunction 'As', Functions
- 'As' shows the reason;
- 'As' shows simultaneity;
- 'As' shows comparison;
- 'As' shows the contrast;
- 'As' shows the result.
Use
As can be a conjunction and express reasons, simultaneity, etc. Take a look:
2.1 'As' Shows the Reason
As is used to express the reason or cause. So, it has a similar meaning to 'because, since.'
You can go out
2.2 'As' Shows Simultaneity
As is used to express simultaneity. That is, it indicates two actions are performed at the same time. So, it has a similar meaning to 'while.' For example:
My dad saw me
2.3 'As' Shows Comparison
As is used to compare something to something else and it indicates the way something is done or happens. It has a similar meaning to 'just like, just the way.' For example:
You can do
I cleaned the garden
2.4 'As' Shows the Contrast
As is used to show the contrast between two clauses and it has a similar meaning to 'although, though, even though.' Note that there is an inversion in this case. Like:
Try
Happy
'As' in 'As he is happy...' is inverted with the adjective.
Beautifully
2.5 'As' Shows the Result
As in the structure so/such + adjective + as + infinitive is used to show the result or outcome.
I am so young
He was so old
Tip
As is a conjunction and can be used instead of 'that' in an informal context. Look:
I don't know
Position in a Sentence
If as is a conjunction, it heads an adverbial clause that acts as an adverb. That is, it adds more information to the verb, the adjective, or another adverb. For example:
I cleaned the garden
'As my mom wished' is an adverbial clause and describes the verb 'cleaning.'
3. 'As' Is an Adverb
Use
As is used before adjectives or other adverbs to mean 'to the same degree.' For example:
I love him a lot but I don't love you
'Much' is an adverb.
As... as
The structure as + adjective/ adverb + as is used when comparing two things that are the same or equal in the same way. Look:
You should walk
The first 'as' is an adverb and the second one is a preposition.
They are
Position in a Sentence
If as is an adverb, it comes before adjectives or other adverbs. For example:
You should walk
'As' comes before the adverb 'slowly.'
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