10 Common Uses of the Word "Like" in English

The word "like" is one of the most flexible and widely used words in the English language. It can be a verb, a preposition, a conjunction, a filler, and even part of idiomatic expressions. Understanding its different meanings and uses will help you sound more natural and fluent in everyday conversations.

Here are 10 common ways to use the word "like"in English

1. To Express Enjoyment or Preference (Verb)

This is the most common and basic use.

Example:

I like chocolate ice cream.
She likes going to the beach.

2. To Show Similarity (Preposition)

"Like" can compare two things or people.

Example:

He runs like a cheetah.
That dress looks like the one I saw yesterday.

3. To Give Examples (Preposition)

"Like" is often used to introduce examples in conversation.

Example:

I enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and swimming.

4. To Say Someone Resembles Someone Else

Used to describe appearance or behavior.

Example:

She looks like her mother.
He acts like his older brother.

5. As a Filler Word (Informal Speech)

Common in casual conversation, especially with younger speakers.

Example:

I was, like, totally shocked!
And then he was like, “I don’t care.”

6. To Approximate (About or Around)

Used when giving estimates or vague amounts.

Example:

There were like 100 people at the concert.
It cost like 20 dollars.

7. To Express wants, preferences, or offers in English

Often used with "would" or "I'd."

Example:

I’d like a cup of coffee, please.
Would you like to join us?

8. To Show Social Media Approval (Noun/Verb)

A modern use tied to social platforms.

Example:

My photo got 200 likes.
Don’t forget to like and subscribe!

9. To Ask for Someone’s Opinion or Desire

Used in polite questions.

Example:

What would you like for dinner?
Would you like to come with us?

10. In Similes and Descriptive Phrases

To make language more vivid or expressive.

Example:

The sky was pink, like cotton candy.
His voice sounded like thunder.

Can You Spot the Different Meanings?

Here’s a short paragraph using "like" in different ways. See how many you can find—and try to match them to the meanings above:

I was like, totally exhausted after work, but I still felt like going out. So I texted some friends—like Anna and Jake—to see if they wanted to grab dinner. Jake was like, “Sure!” and Anna was like, “I’d like that.” We went to a new restaurant that looks like a treehouse. It had stuff like lanterns and hammocks hanging from the ceiling. I posted a photo, and it already has like 80 likes!

How many uses of “like” did you find? Can you remember all the meanings?

Final Thoughts

"Like" is a small word with big power. The more comfortable you become using it in its different forms, the more natural your English will sound. Practice using it in your own conversations and writing—it’s, like, totally worth it!

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