Use of 'Like'

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Use of 'Like'

by NaimaB » Fri Nov 28, 2014 8:17 am
So far what i have learned is, LIKE can be used for comparisons between to comparable noun/pronoun and it should not be used to give examples. But in answer explanation of q no 65, of OG verbal 2nd edition it has been mentioned that even though this subject matter is disputed, it is an acceptable use.

Can any expert clarify this?

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by [email protected] » Fri Nov 28, 2014 11:48 am
Hi NaimaB,

The GMAT tends to be consistent with its use of "style" rules in SC questions (although there are sometimes some minor inconsistencies).

Based on what you're asking about, here are some general patterns that SCs tend to stick to:

"Like Harvard, Standford is regarded as a top Business School."

Here, the word "like" is used to compare "like things" (2 Business Schools)

"The student is interested in attending a top Business School, such as Harvard."

Here, the phrase "such as" is used to cite an example.

If you find that you're not sure about a particular style rule (or you think that the rule might be applied in an inconsistent way), then you should look for any other grammar rules that appear in the prompt/answers. By focusing on grammar rules that you are more certain about (e.g. subject-verb agreement, pronouns, etc.), you might be able to eliminate all of the wrong answers without needing to consider any style rules involved.

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