like doing

USAGE SUMMARY

"like doing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express a preference for something, for example: I like doing yoga. It helps me to relax after a long day.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I like doing that.

The New York Times

"I don't like doing it.

Independent

That's what I like doing".

The New York Times - Sports

"I like doing it.

The New York Times

"We like doing specs.

The New York Times

"I don't like doing this stuff.

Independent

"We don't like doing it, though.

The New York Times

"I don't like doing this.

The New York Times

They like doing funny voices.

The Guardian

"I don't like doing me.

The Guardian

I didn't like doing any of it.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a specific instance, consider using "like to do". For example, instead of saying "I like doing go to the park today", say "I like to go to the park today."

Common error

Avoid using "like doing" when referring to a single, future action. Instead, use "like to do". Saying "I like doing go to the party" is incorrect; the correct phrasing is "I like to go to the party".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like doing" functions as a verb phrase expressing preference or enjoyment. It typically follows a subject and precedes an object or complement, indicating a habitual or general liking for the specified activity. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is grammatically sound and commonly accepted.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

32%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "like doing" is a versatile and commonly used construction for expressing general preferences and enjoyment of activities. As Ludwig AI highlights, it is grammatically correct and appears frequently across diverse sources, including News & Media, Science and Wiki articles. While "enjoy doing" and "love doing" offer similar meanings, the choice depends on the desired intensity and context. Remember to use "like to do" for specific actions or future intentions, avoiding the common error of using "like doing" in those situations. The phrase is suitable for neutral to informal settings. Mastering its use enhances clarity and expressiveness in both written and spoken communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

enjoy doing

Replaces "like" with "enjoy", emphasizing the pleasure derived from the activity.

love doing

Intensifies the preference by using "love" instead of "like", indicating a stronger positive feeling.

prefer to do

Shifts the focus to a comparison, highlighting the favored action among alternatives.

am fond of doing

Uses a more formal tone to express affection or liking for an activity.

take pleasure in doing

Emphasizes the satisfaction obtained from engaging in the activity.

am keen on doing

Indicates enthusiasm and eagerness towards the activity.

have a passion for doing

Highlights a strong, intense enthusiasm for the activity.

relish doing

Implies a great enjoyment and appreciation for the activity.

delight in doing

Suggests a joyful and pleasurable experience derived from the activity.

find satisfaction in doing

Focuses on the sense of fulfillment and contentment gained from the activity.

FAQs

How do I use "like doing" in a sentence?

Use "like doing" to express general preferences or habitual actions. For example, "I "like doing" yoga every morning" shows a regular habit.

What are some alternatives to "like doing"?

You can use alternatives such as "enjoy doing", "love doing", or "prefer to do" depending on the context and intensity of your preference.

Is it correct to say "I like to doing"?

No, "I like to doing" is grammatically incorrect. The correct forms are "I "like doing"" (for general preferences) and "I like to do" (for specific actions).

What is the difference between "like doing" and "like to do"?

"Like doing" generally refers to enjoying an activity in general, while "like to do" often refers to a specific action or a future intention. For example, "I "like doing" photography" (general enjoyment) vs. "I like to take photos at the park" (specific intention).