like - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
like Word Meanings
- to find something enjoyable
- to show preference
- to be similar to
like Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
like Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/laɪk/
US
/laɪk/
like Word Etymology
like: from Old English 'lician' (to please) + the root 'like' (similar). Origin: Germanic → Old English → Modern English. Picture someone 'liking' something, smiling as they point to something they enjoy.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I reach for the radio knob and turn it to a new station, letting the sound fill the room. The rhythm nudges my shoulders as I adjust my posture to ride the groove. The more it settles in, the more I realize I like this vibe, a small smile rising. From there I keep coming back to songs with a similar mood, letting the feeling guide my choices.
Real Context
Like is a versatile English word that covers several ideas at once. It can express enjoyment (I like this movie), a preference or invitation (Would you like some tea?), and similarity (That jacket is like mine). As a verb, it often signals feelings or preferences rather than a precise action, and it can appear in informal requests (would you like). As a preposition, like introduces comparisons, similar to, or in the manner of. Learners should distinguish like from love or enjoy, and from the more formal as or as if constructions. Pay attention to subject-verb agreement after like in questions and negatives.
Usage Reminders
- Keep like in everyday speech, compare feelings precisely, differentiate from love, use would like for polite offers, remember would like does not always imply a strong preference, check for subject-verb agreement in questions.
Common Misconceptions
- Like always means 'enjoy' rather than 'prefer' in all contexts
- Confusing like with as if/as though in comparisons
- Using like to express a strong emotion instead of love
- Overusing would like in formal situations
- Treating like as a precise action rather than a feeling or comparison
Thinking Differences
In English, like is flexible and often softer than love. Learners must notice that liking is a general positive feeling, not a deep emotion, and that like can introduce comparisons or invitations without pressure. Mistakes often involve treating like as a verb of action rather than feeling, or confusing it with as if.
Learning Tips
- Practice with common collocations: likeable, like-minded, would you like
- Use like in informal requests and invitations
- Differentiate like from love in intensity
- When comparing, choose like + noun or like + adjective
- Don't confuse like with as if/as though
- Review negation and questions with like
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'like' correctly?
A.I like eating oranges.
B.She runs like a cat.
C.He is like happy.
D.They study like a car.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'like'?
A.love
B.hate
C.table
D.big
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'like'?
A.dislike
B.laugh
C.yellow
D.jump
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where 'like' is used correctly?
A.They enjoy playing.
B.She runs fast.
C.He eats a lot.
D.I dance
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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