I would like to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I would like to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when expressing a desire to do something, such as: "I would like to go to the beach this weekend."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I would like to, though.

The New York Times

"I would like to thank the viewers.

Independent

I would like to reconcile the two".

The New York Times

But I would like to be".

Independent

I would like to get it.

The New Yorker

I would like to see him here.

The New Yorker

"I would like to have my card.

The New York Times - Sports

I would like to put things right".

Independent

"I would like to be like him.

Independent

"I would like to go to America.

The New Yorker

"I would like to go somewhere else".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, replace "I want to" with "I would like to" to enhance formality and politeness, particularly in professional communication.

Common error

While grammatically correct, overuse of "I would like to" in very casual settings can sound overly formal or stiff. Consider using "I want to" or "I'd like to" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I would like to" functions as a polite modal verb phrase used to express a desire, request, or intention. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and serves to soften the expression of wanting something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I would like to" is a grammatically sound and very common phrase used to express desires and requests politely. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for various contexts, ranging from neutral to formal, with a strong presence in news, business, and general communication. While it is more formal than "I want to", it maintains versatility across settings. Remember to balance its use with context to avoid sounding overly formal in casual conversations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I'd like to

Contraction, making it more informal.

I wish to

More formal and slightly less common.

I want to

More direct and less polite.

I desire to

Very formal and somewhat archaic.

I feel inclined to

More indirect and hesitant.

It would please me to

Highly formal and somewhat old-fashioned.

I am willing to

Emphasizes willingness or consent.

I am eager to

Expresses enthusiasm or anticipation.

I intend to

Indicates a plan or purpose.

I have a yearning to

Expresses a strong longing or desire.

FAQs

How to use "I would like to" in a sentence?

"I would like to" is used to express a polite request or desire. For example, "I would like to order a pizza" or "I would like to thank you".

What can I say instead of "I would like to"?

You can use alternatives such as "I wish to", "I want to", or "I'd like to", depending on the context and level of formality.

Is it correct to say "I would like to" or "I want to"?

Both are correct, but "I would like to" is generally considered more polite and formal than "I want to". Use "I would like to" in situations where politeness is important.

What's the difference between "I would like to" and "I'd like to"?

"I'd like to" is a contraction of "I would like to". They have the same meaning, but "I'd like to" is slightly more informal.