Cool MateLike vs Like what
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Like
High-frequency chunkA1preposition
Like what
InformalTop 3,000 (common)
Most formal: LikeMost common: Like
| Like | Like what | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 /["/laɪk/"]/🇺🇸 /["/laɪk/"]/ | 🇬🇧 //laɪk wɒt//🇺🇸 //laɪk wɑt// |
| Meaning | to enjoy or be pleased by something | Used to ask for more information or clarification. |
| Example | I like chocolate ice cream. | I'm working on a project. Like what are you doing specifically? |
| Register | Neutral | Informal |
| How common | High-frequency chunk | Top 3,000 (common) |
| CEFR level | A1 | - |
| Part of speech | preposition | |
| Collocations | like to eat, like a friend, like doing, like music, like the weather | like what kinds, like what examples, like what activities |
| Antonyms | dislike, hate, detest | - |
| Common mistakes | Omitting the object, e.g. 'I like' instead of 'I like pizza'., Using 'like' in place of 'such as' when giving examples., Confusing 'like' with 'as' in comparative sentences. | Using it in formal writing., Confusing it with similar phrases like 'such as'., Not following it with an explanation or example. |
| Usage notes | Used to express enjoyment or preference. Can be informal in casual conversations, but it's also suitable for formal situations. Avoid using in very formal writing or speeches. | "Like what" is commonly used in casual conversations when someone wants examples or details. It can sound abrupt if used in formal situations. |
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Frequently asked questions: Like vs Like what
What's the difference between Like and Like what?
Like: to enjoy or be pleased by something Like what: Used to ask for more information or clarification.
Which is more formal: Like and Like what?
Like is the most formal of these.
Which is more common: Like and Like what?
Like is the most common in everyday English.
Can you show an example of each?
Like: I like chocolate ice cream. Like what: I'm working on a project. Like what are you doing specifically?
Can I use Like and Like what interchangeably?
Not always. Like and Like what are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.