like him

USAGE SUMMARY

"like him" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it as a comparison and to show similarity between two people or things. For example: "My brother is a great basketball player, just like him."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"But I like him".

The New York Times

"I don't like him.

The New York Times

"Oscar looked like him.

The New York Times

We didn't like him.

The New Yorker

They don't like him.

The New Yorker

"Not remotely" (like him).

The New Yorker

Did you like him?

Independent

"They like him.

The New York Times - Sports

should we like him?

The New Yorker

We don't like him.

Independent

That's why I like him".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing someone to another person, "like him" serves as a concise way to indicate that they share similar attributes or qualities.

Common error

Avoid using "like him" when a more precise term is required to convey a specific type of affection or admiration. Overusing this general phrase may make your writing less impactful. Use "admire him" or "respect him" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like him" typically functions as a predicate in a sentence, expressing a subject's positive sentiment or affinity towards the person referred to as "him". Ludwig's examples show its usage across various contexts, indicating its versatility in conveying simple approval.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Wiki

6%

Science

46%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "like him" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to convey a positive sentiment or comparison. As confirmed by Ludwig, it functions primarily to express fondness or approval. Its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse contexts, from news articles to casual conversations. To enhance your writing, consider using more specific terms when appropriate to convey precise emotions or characteristics. While "like him" is widely accepted and easily understood, being mindful of potential overgeneralization can make your writing more impactful.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

think highly of him

This suggests a positive opinion and respect for his character or abilities.

be fond of him

This alternative uses a more formal expression to convey liking someone.

be keen on him

This expresses a strong liking, almost bordering on romantic interest.

take to him

This means to quickly develop a liking for someone.

have affection for him

This expresses a deeper emotional connection, going beyond simple liking.

find him agreeable

Indicates that he is pleasant and easy to get along with.

be into him

An informal way of saying you are attracted to or interested in him.

approve of him

This suggests agreement with his actions or character, implying respect.

enjoy his company

Focuses on the pleasure derived from spending time with him.

admire him

This indicates a feeling of respect and appreciation for his qualities or achievements.

FAQs

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

You can use "like him" to express admiration or fondness for someone, or to compare someone's qualities to his. For example, "Many people admire his courage, and I "like him" too."

What are some alternatives to saying "I like him"?

Depending on the context, you could say "I "admire him"", "I'm "fond of him"", or "I "respect him"". These options can convey different shades of meaning.

Is it grammatically correct to say "like him"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase is commonly used as a predicate after a subject and verb to indicate a positive sentiment or similarity.

What does it mean when someone says "He's just like him"?

It means that the person being described shares similar characteristics or qualities with the person referred to as "him". The context usually reveals what specific traits are being compared.