as much as

Used when two things have the same amount or degree.

• I like pears as much as apples.
• He worked as much as his sister did.
• Does this cost as much as that one?

How to use it: as much as someone/something (I like tea as much as coffee.); as much as + clause (She earns as much as I do.)

Similar words: to the same extent as

Common phrases: as much as someone, as much as something

Introduces the amount that someone wants, needs, or is allowed to have.

• Take as much as you want.
• We saved as much as we could.
• Use as much as you need for the recipe.

How to use it: as much as + clause (Take as much as you need.)

Common phrases: as much as needed, as much as possible

Used to accept one fact before explaining a different or surprising fact.

• As much as I love cake, I’m full.
• As much as she wanted to stay, she had to leave.
• As much as we disagree, I respect your opinion.

How to use it: as much as + clause, clause (As much as I like him, I can’t trust him.)

Similar words: although, even though, much as

Common phrases: as much as someone, as much as we

Almost or effectively, even if someone does not do or say it directly.

• He as much as admitted it.
• Her smile as much as said yes.
• They as much as promised us the job.

How to use it: as much as + verb (His silence as much as confirmed the story.)

Similar words: practically, virtually, effectively

Common phrases: as much as admitted, as much as promised

Even a small action, especially one that did not happen or should not happen.

• He left without as much as a smile.
• If you as much as whisper, she will hear you.
• They never as much as thanked us.

How to use it: without as much as + -ing (He left without as much as saying goodbye.); if someone as much as + verb (If you as much as touch that vase, I’ll be angry.)

Similar words: even, so much as

Common phrases: as much as look, as much as ask