What does like mean?
Like is a versatile English word used to express similarity, resemblance, example, manner, enjoyment, or approval. Before a noun, it commonly means “similar to” or “resembling”: “She is like her sister.” Before a verb or clause, it can mean “in the manner of”: “He runs like a sprinter.” After a form of “be,” it often introduces an example: “It is more like a novel than a history.” As a verb, like means to find pleasing or enjoyable, as in “I like your suggestion.” In informal conversation, it can also make a request: “I’d like some coffee.” The noun and adjective senses, referring to preferences and attractive qualities, are more conversational and less common in formal prose. Because the word changes meaning according to its grammatical role and surrounding context, it is especially useful for linking comparison, preference, and illustration.
Indicating similarity, resemblance, or a characteristic of something.
"The city was like a maze, with narrow streets running in every direction."
Before a noun, it often means “similar to”; before a clause, it can mean “in the manner of.”
To find something pleasing, enjoyable, or agreeable.
"I like the way you have explained the problem."
In requests, “I would like” is generally more formal and less blunt than “I want.”
Introducing an example or comparison.
"Many students, like those who study abroad, benefit from meeting new people."
In formal prose, “such as” is often preferred when introducing an example.
Used informally to make a conversational statement or request, especially with the verb “be.”
"I’d like to come along if there is room."
This usage is common in speech and informal writing but is less common in formal prose.
The plural is used for a person’s preferences or for things that are enjoyed: “Her likes include travel and photography.”
"He knows her likes and dislikes very well."
One little word carries remarkably different meanings: resemblance, enjoyment, resemblance to a standard, and the language of comparison.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does like come from?
The word descends from Old English līcan, meaning “to be similar” or “to compare,” which was related to forms in other Germanic languages. The modern verb meaning “to find agreeable” developed later from the idea of being alike in preference or character. The shortened form like emerged in the late Middle English period, while forms such as likely, likeness, and likable continued the same older root.
Related word forms
How like is actually used
The word is extremely common and its meaning is strongly context-dependent. In formal writing, “such as” is often preferable to “like” when introducing examples, while conversational “I like it” is standard. The adjective and noun uses are generally informal.
Easily confused with like
“Like” can describe similarity or resemblance, whereas “likely” means probable or expected.
“Like” indicates a similarity, while “unlike” indicates a noticeable difference.