adverb
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in addition; moreover; also
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in like manner; similarly
Usage
What does likewise mean? Likewise can mean also, in addition, moreover, similarly, or in the same way. Likewise can also be used to mean something like “me too” or “the same thing you just said.” When used this way, it’s typically used by itself as a one-word response to a statement. For example, if someone says, “It was nice you meet you,” you could simply reply, “Likewise!”Example: I think we work well together, and I hope you feel likewise.
Etymology
Origin of likewise
First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English; earlier in like wise “in a like way;” see like 1, wise 2
Explanation
Likewise means "similarly." Your attempt to bypass security with a fake ID was unsuccessful, and your guise as a pizza deliverer was likewise ineffective. Likewise is an adverb with three different senses. One is "similarly." You were unimpressed with your brother's poetry, and likewise unimpressed with his taste in music. Likewise can also mean "in addition," and "equally." Your new t-shirts sold well at the beach boutique, and likewise they sold well on line. If you want to tell someone you feel the way he does, say, "I feel likewise."
Vocabulary lists containing likewise
Academic Vocabulary, Unit 3
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Kasen has also suggested that if a collapsing star forms a black hole instead of a magnetar, it could likewise produce an unusually bright supernova.
From Science Daily ● Jul. 6, 2026
They likewise give no concession to the idea that the public has an interest in knowing where justices go, what they say, or who paid their way.
From Slate ● Jul. 2, 2026
If you need a deep stretch of silence or reflection, design a micro-retreat around that; likewise if you long to dive into a creative project.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 14, 2026
The director is a longtime action coordinator mentored by Donnie Yen; likewise, Sonomura has started to helm his own fastidiously staged chaos.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 11, 2026
Sam did likewise, and put aside his orc-gear; and he took out all the things in his pack.
From "The Return of the King" by J.R.R. Tolkien
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
