28. Omission of 'as'
This is very common, but quite contrary to good modern usage, after the verb regard, and others like it. In the first three instances the motive of the omission is obvious, but does not justify it; all that was necessary was to choose another verb, as consider, that does not require as. In the later instances the omission is gratuitous.
I regard it as important as anything.
Lord Bombie had run away with Lady Bombie 'in her sark'. This I could not help regarding both a most improper as well as a most uncomfortable proceeding.–Crockett.
So vital is this suggestion regarded.
Rare early editions of Shakespeare's plays and poems—editions which had long been regarded among the national heirloomş.–S. Lee.
The latter may now be expected to regard himself absolved from such obligation as he previously felt.–Times.
A memoir which was justly regarded of so much merit and importance that...–Huxley.
...what inight be classed a 'horizontal' European triplice.–Times.
You would look upon yourself amply revenged if you knew what they have cost me.–Richardson.
He also alluded to the bayonet, and observed that its main use was no longer a defence against cavalry, but it was for the final charge.–Times.
...I was rewarded with such a conception of the God-like majesty and infinite divinity which everywhere loomed up behind and shone through the humanity of the Son of Man that no false teaching or any power on earth or in hell itself will ever shake my firm faith in the combined divinity and humanity in the person of the Son of God, and as sure am I that I eat and drink and live to-day, so certain am I that this mysterious Divine Redeemer is in living...—Daily Telegraph.
The last example is of a different kind. Read as sure as I am for as sure am I as the least possible correction. Unpractised writers should beware of correlative clauses except in their very simplest forms.
29. Other Liberties taken with 'as'
As must not be expected to do by itself the work of such as.
