Question on Like vs As

[voodoo_child]

Question from MGMAT verbal series-
HE uses the hammer has a weapon. Why can't we write - He uses the hammer like a weapon ? What's wrong with using like vs as ?

Thanks
Voodoo

[voodoo_child]

No replies ? There is a typo.

The question should be - He uses the hammer as a weapon.


I want to understand if we can say "He uses the hammer like a weapon." I am not sure what's the difference. CAn you please help me ?

Thanks
Voodoo

[aspirant2011]

the sentence has the verb as "uses" which means that its a action and in order to compare the actions "as" is used...........

[Jim@Grockit]

"As" here is "in the role/place of". "Like" would could here mean that he uses a particular hammer that resembles a weapon (maybe it has skulls carved on it or something); instead we need his use of the hammer to be weapon-y.

The difference is clearer with a different verb. Compare:

He chose the hammer like a weapon (as opposed to some other hammers)
He chose the hammer as a weapon (as opposed to as a tool or a paperweight).