I certainly like

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I certainly like" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express a strong affirmation of your liking for something or someone. Example: "I certainly like the new restaurant in town; their food is exceptional."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

"Well I certainly like to control what my wife reads.

The Guardian - Books

Most people say chocolate and crisps or something and I certainly like them.

Independent

"I certainly like those residuals," he told The Daily News in 1958.

The New York Times

I certainly like being able to go off in front of the leaders".

The New York Times - Sports

I certainly like being a woman, but I wouldn't consider it my primary identifier or interest.

The Guardian - Tech

"It's tough personally because, obviously, I certainly like Bernie," he said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

"I could see somebody thinking of this area as underutilized," said Ms. Warren, who moved with the city's help to a walk-up on 10th Avenue, "but I certainly liked seeing the blue sky".

The New York Times

I certainly liked it that way so I used that figure as a benchmark for years.

Vice

I actually don't feel like I have to, but I'd certainly like to.

Huffington Post

I can't ride a motorbike but I would certainly like to go on a trip with him.

BBC

"I would like to know what normal means in relation to the general population, so I would certainly like some reference ranges...If there weren't any reference ranges, then I would certainly like to know that a test...came back negative and what negative meant".

BMC Family Practice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I certainly like" to express a clear and strong positive sentiment, especially when you want to emphasize your approval or enjoyment. For example, "I certainly like the way this project is progressing."

Common error

Avoid using "certainly" too frequently in very informal conversations, as it can sound overly formal or stiff. In casual settings, simpler alternatives like "I really like" or "I definitely like" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I certainly like" functions as an expression of strong affirmation. It indicates a clear and definite liking for something. Examples from Ludwig show its use in expressing enjoyment of activities, concepts, and even people.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I certainly like" is a commonly used expression to convey a strong positive sentiment. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media. While it may sound slightly formal in very casual settings, it is generally appropriate for expressing clear approval or enjoyment. Consider using alternatives like "I really like" or "I definitely like" for less formal situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I definitely like

Emphasizes the definiteness of the liking.

I really like

A more common and slightly less formal alternative.

I particularly enjoy

Highlights a specific preference or enjoyment.

I truly enjoy

Adds a sense of genuine pleasure.

I genuinely appreciate

Highlights the value or worth someone finds in something.

I am quite fond of

A more formal and reserved expression of liking.

I have a fondness for

Indicates an affectionate liking.

I am very keen on

Implies a strong interest or enthusiasm.

I find it appealing

Focuses on the attractive or pleasing qualities of something.

I favor

Implies a preference or choice.

FAQs

How can I use "I certainly like" in a sentence?

Use "I certainly like" to express a strong feeling of approval or enjoyment. For instance, "I certainly like the new design" or "I certainly like working with you".

What are some alternatives to "I certainly like"?

You can use alternatives such as "I really like", "I definitely like", or "I truly enjoy", depending on the context and the level of formality you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "I certainly like" and "I like"?

Yes, "I certainly like" conveys a stronger and more emphatic feeling of approval or enjoyment compared to the simple "I like". The addition of "certainly" adds emphasis.

When is it best to use "I certainly like" over "I really like"?

"I certainly like" is suitable when you want to express a firm and clear preference or enjoyment. "I really like" is more commonly used and slightly less formal, making it suitable for everyday conversations.