likens - Master This Word
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likens Word Meanings
- to compare two things
- to regard as similar
- to make a likeness
likens Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
likens Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈlaɪ.kən/
US
/ˈlaɪ.kən/
likens Word Etymology
like = similar + en = to make. Origin: Old English liken → Middle English liken → Modern English. Memory image: Imagine two similar objects, like two apples next to each other, helping you remember that to 'liken' is to show similarity.
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 InputReal Context
Liken is a formal verb meaning to compare two things or to regard one thing as similar to another. It is often used to explain similarities or to create a literary image by drawing a parallel. You typically say 'to liken X to Y' or 'X was likened to Y.' For example, 'The poet likened the city to a living organism.' The idea is to make a likeness visible to the reader, not just to state that two things are similar. The etymology comes from like (similar) plus en (to make), a construction from Old English liken through Middle English to Modern English. Learners commonly confuse liken with like or with similar to; remember liken is a transitive verb that takes to after the second noun.
Usage Reminders
- Use with to: liken X to Y OR X was likened to Y
- Be careful with tense: common in past or hypothetical contexts
- Liken is transitive, not used as an adjective
- Typically formal or literary in tone
- Avoid mixing up with 'like' in simple comparisons
- Remember the noun after to should be the thing being compared
Common Misconceptions
- Liken is interchangeable with like in all cases; it is not, because liken is formal and transitive, while like is a preposition or a verb/adjective form used differently.
- People think you can say 'liken X to Y' for any comparison; sometimes 'X is similar to Y' or 'X resembles Y' fits better stylistically.
- Confusing the subject: you do not say 'to liken' without a direct object.
- Mistaking 'liken' for a noun or adjective; it is always a verb.
- For passive constructions, use 'X is likened to Y' rather than 'X likens to Y'.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: liken is formal and more precise than casual like; expect discussions of imagery and literary tone.
Learning Tips
- 1) Practice with X to Y constructions in writing and reading.
- 2) Compare liken to similar verbs like resemble or compare, noting formality.
- 3) Distinguish be likened to (passive) from they liken X to Y (active).
- 4) Use in literary or analytical contexts to describe imagery.
- 5) Check collocations: liken X to Y; rarely used without to.
- Review etymology to remember the sense of making a likeness.
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