as . . . as

Idioms  

1. Also, so . . . as. Used with an adjective or adverb to show similarity or equality of one thing with another. The as . . . as construction appears in numerous similes, including the idioms as rich as Croesus, as big as life, as good as done. (In this book, when such idioms occur without the first as, they can be found under the adjective or adverb, rich as . . .; big as . . .; good as . . .; etc.; those that do not, like as far as, as long as, as well as, are found at as below.) The construction so . . . as is often preferred in negative statements like I couldn't sleep, not so much as a wink, a usage dating from the 1200s. Also see as far as.

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Example Sentences

Although Saxon’s attorneys at the Los Angeles-based firm West Coast Trial Lawyers called the verdict a “mixed” one, they characterized it as as a “vindication for our client.”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 11, 2026

The financial hub is famous for its dramatic skyline of sky scrapers set against a picturesque harbour, many of which are home to residents as well as as banks and commercial offices.

From Barron's • Nov. 27, 2025

Every episode begins with a snippet from, of all things, “Help!” as as if warning of storm clouds ahead, and not “All You Need Is Love” or “With a Little Help from My Friends.”

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 26, 2025

He said she was known around the world for her role as as Hyacinth Bucket - pronounced "bouquet" - because "everywhere people like laughing at the English".

From BBC • Nov. 5, 2025

Leah blurted out all in a rush, “So the plain simple grass of God’s creation can be just as strong as, as rubber or whatnot!”

From "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver