# as

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/as
Updated: 2026-07-09

## Senses

### 1. comparison

conjunction · CEFR A1

used to compare two things that are the same in some way.

For teachers: used to indicate equality in degree or manner between two entities or actions.

- The second movie was just as good as the first one.
- The results of the second trial were as conclusive as the initial findings had suggested they would be.

Usage: Used in the 'as + adjective + as' construction.

### 2. because

conjunction · CEFR B1 · Formal

used to give a reason for something.

For teachers: used to introduce a clause that provides a reason or explanation; synonymous with 'since' or 'because'.

- As it was raining, we decided to stay home and watch a movie.
- As the chairman was unable to attend the meeting, the vice-chair presided over the vote.

Usage: Often used at the beginning of a sentence in formal writing.

### 3. while

conjunction · CEFR A2

used to show that two things are happening at the same time.

For teachers: used to indicate that one action or event is occurring simultaneously with another.

- She waved to her friends as she walked onto the bus.
- The audience began to cheer as the lead singer stepped into the spotlight.

### 4. role or job

preposition · CEFR A1

used to describe the job or purpose of someone or something.

For teachers: used to indicate the capacity, role, or function of a person or object.

- She works as a nurse in the local hospital.
- He was hired as a consultant to oversee the restructuring of the marketing department.

Usage: Followed by a noun phrase.

### 5. intensifier

adverb · CEFR C1 · Informal · Dialect

used after an adjective to mean 'very' or 'extremely'.

For teachers: used as a post-positive intensifier for adjectives.

- The weather today is hot as.
- After working a double shift, he was tired as and went straight to bed.

Teaching tip: This usage is specific to Australian and New Zealand English; learners should be aware of its regional nature.

## Examples

- She is as tall as her brother.
- As the sun began to set, the temperature dropped quickly and the hikers looked for a place to camp.
- The legal framework remains unchanged as the committee has yet to reach a consensus on the proposed amendments regarding digital privacy.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.