like
verb (transitive)
UK/laɪk/US/laɪk/
To find something agreeable, enjoyable, or satisfactory.
Example Sentences
I like spending time with my family.
She likes reading mystery novels.
Do you like coffee or tea?
They like to go hiking on weekends.
He likes the new design of the website.
We all like to travel and explore new places.
She doesn't like loud noises.
He likes playing the guitar in his free time.
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preposition
UK/laɪk/US/laɪk/
Similar to; in the manner of.
Example Sentences
He looks like his father.
She sings like an angel.
They worked together like a well-oiled machine.
The new smartphone operates like a traditional phone.
He dances like a professional.
The weather today is like yesterday.
The cake tastes like chocolate.
She runs like the wind.
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noun (countable)
UK/laɪk/US/laɪk/
A person or thing that is similar to another.
Example Sentences
He found a like in his new neighbor.
She bought a like of the original artwork.
They have likes in their personalities.
The two products are likes of each other.
He resembles his father; there's a like between them.
The two proposals are likes, making the choice difficult.
She couldn't find a like for her favorite item.
The similarities create a like between the two events.
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adjective
UK/laɪk/US/laɪk/
Similar to; resembling.
Example Sentences
He has a like appearance to his brother.
She wore a like dress to the party.
Their ideas are like; they both value innovation.
The two buildings have a like design.
The twins share a like sense of humor.
Their approaches to the problem are like each other.
She made a like gesture to indicate agreement.
The new model is like the previous one, with only minor changes.
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interjection
UK/laɪk/US/laɪk/
Used to fill pauses in speech or to express approximation or uncertainty.
Example Sentences
I'm, like, so tired today.
She was, like, totally surprised by the news.
He was, like, not sure what to say.
It's, like, really hot outside.
They were, like, hanging out at the mall.
I'm, like, going to the store later.
He was, like, telling me a funny story.
She was, like, seriously considering the offer.
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How to Use
Expresses fondness, similarity, or approval of something or someone.“Like” is both a verb and a preposition (among other uses). As a verb, it commonly indicates preference or enjoyment: “I like ice cream,” “She liked the movie,” or “They are liking the new teacher.” With this usage, you signal positive feelings or admiration toward an object, activity, or person.As a preposition or conjunction, “like” compares things: “This place looks like my old school,” or “She runs like the wind.” In casual speech, it can also introduce reported speech or serve as a filler (“I was like, ‘No way!’”). Such colloquial usage adds emphasis or mimics the speaker’s thoughts.Grammatically, be precise about where “like” appears. If you’re indicating preference, pair it with direct objects (“I like coffee”) or gerunds (“I like drinking coffee”). For comparisons, you might use “like” with nouns or pronouns (“Your plan sounds like hers”). Overall, “like” is highly adaptable, reflecting both personal taste and resemblance, while also appearing frequently in modern slang or informal conversation.
Alternatives
Synonyms for the verbal sense of “like” depend on the degree of enthusiasm. For strong appreciation, consider “love,” “enjoy,” or “adore.” If you prefer something mildly, “prefer,” “favor,” or “take to” might fit. For the comparative sense, phrases like “similar to,” “akin to,” or “reminiscent of” can replace “like,” especially in more formal writing—e.g., “This concept is similar to the earlier hypothesis.”In casual contexts, if you want to avoid overusing the filler “like,” you might insert words like “said,” “thought,” or “went,” though they slightly alter nuance. For example, instead of “I was like, ‘Wow!’” you could say, “I said, ‘Wow!’” This approach can maintain clarity in narrative writing. In expressive or slang-heavy environments, though, “like” remains a core feature of contemporary speech. Ultimately, the appropriate replacement hinges on context and tone. Where precise, formal language is needed, synonyms or alternative structures help you avoid repetitive “like.” Where casual vibe is desired, “like” can enliven and personalize dialogue or narration.
Writing
When writing formally, limit the filler use of “like” (e.g., “I was like...”), as it can seem informal or imprecise. Instead, try “said,” “asked,” or “exclaimed.” For comparisons, ensure correct usage—“like” should compare nouns or pronouns (“He runs like a cheetah”). If you need to compare clauses, opt for “as” or “as if”—for instance, “He runs as if he’s being chased.” In more casual or creative works, “like” can capture authentic voices, especially in dialogue. Teen characters or modern slang often feature “like” as a filler or to emphasize exact feelings: “I was, like, beyond excited!” This reflects contemporary speech patterns and can bring characters to life. However, overusing “like” can tire readers, so employ moderation.Additionally, when expressing preference, vary synonyms if repetition occurs. You could write, “I enjoy,” “I appreciate,” or “I savor,” depending on nuance. Finally, watch out for confusion between “like” and “such as” when introducing examples. If you’re listing specific items, “such as” often works better in formal documents: “The report covers topics such as budgeting, scheduling, and staffing.” Thoughtful usage keeps your writing crisp and clear, while still leveraging “like’s” flexibility.
Casual Conversation
In everyday speech, “like” is ubiquitous. You might say, “I like this song,” or “Do you like sushi?” to share preferences, or insert “like” as a common filler—“It was, like, so crowded!” In conversation, you’ll also see “like” used to approximate quotes: “He was like, ‘Let’s leave now.’” This helps you relay someone’s tone or message informally.Because “like” is so ingrained in casual talk, it can appear multiple times in a single sentence: “I was, like, totally shocked, and she was, like, not surprised at all.” This usage gives dialogue an unfiltered, spontaneous feel. Younger speakers especially adopt “like” as a catchall filler. Even so, too much “like” can be distracting or repetitive. Many people try to reduce filler words when speaking publicly or professionally, but in friendly or relaxed exchanges, no one usually minds. Ultimately, “like” remains a hallmark of contemporary English conversation—simple, relatable, and expressive in small doses.
Etymology
The word “like” stems from Old English “gelíc” (“similar”) and its root in Proto-Germanic *galīkaz, meaning “having the same form.” Over time, Middle English forms “lik” and “lyke” evolved to convey both resemblance and preference. This dual function—likening objects or experiences and expressing fondness—continued into Modern English.The filler usage of “like,” popular in North American English, rose to prominence in the mid-20th century, partly influenced by youth subcultures and media portrayals. By the late 20th century, “like” had cemented its place in casual speech as a frequent interrupter—signaling approximate quotes, mild hesitations, or intensifying expressions. Despite criticism from purists, “like” as filler remains prevalent, especially among younger speakers, highlighting linguistic evolution and cultural shifts. Meanwhile, the core functions of “like”—to show similarity and to express fondness—carry on as mainstays in everyday language, bridging informal chat, comparisons, and affectionate acknowledgments.
