Do you like music? Like what? Me? I like death metal. Most people don’t like it, though. They think it sounds like monsters screaming. I think it’s like really exciting! I want to… like… listen to it every day!
Did you notice how many times I used the word “like” in that short paragraph? “Like” is a very common word in English, but it has many different meanings and uses. Let’s look at five different ways we use “like” in everyday conversation.
1. “Like what?” – Asking for Examples
When someone says they like something, we can ask “Like what?” to request more details or examples.
- Example:
- A: I love Japanese food.
- B: Like what? (What kind of Japanese food do you like?)
2. “I like death metal.” – Expressing Interest
We use “like” to talk about things we enjoy or have an interest in.
- Example: I like learning English.
- Example: She likes watching movies.
3. “It sounds like monsters screaming.” – Making Comparisons
“Like” can be used to compare one thing to another. It means something is similar to something else.
- Example: He runs like a cheetah. (He runs very fast, similar to a cheetah.)
- Example: Your voice sounds like my sister’s.
4. “It’s like really exciting!” – Adding Emphasis
Sometimes, we use “like” to highlight what we are going to say next. This is common in spoken English.
- Example: That movie was like so scary!
- Example: I waited in line for like three hours!
5. “I want to… like… listen to it every day!” – Using “Like” as a Filler Word
People often use “like” as a filler when they need time to think or when they want to soften what they are saying.
- Example: I was, like, really tired yesterday.
- Example: She is, like, the nicest person I know.
Can You Use “Like” in These 5 Ways? (Practice & Examples)
Now it’s your turn! Try making sentences using “like” in all five ways. Which one is the easiest for you? Which one is… like… the hardest?
Let’s practice in the comments below! If you found this lesson helpful, share it with your friends and check out our other English learning tips and grammar guides!