like likes like

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "like likes like" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express the idea that similar people or things tend to be attracted to or prefer each other. Example: "In social settings, it's often true that like likes like; people with similar interests and values tend to form connections."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Like, like likes it. .

Vice

Chris Raschka, author of "A Poke in the I," "Waffle," "Like Likes Like" and "Yo! Yes?"; 3 to 4 p.m. (212) 62120636.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Formula 1: Follow-Like-Like-Like.

Huffington Post

The Follow-Like-Like-Like formula works this way: you find a hashtag that is relevant for your brand.

Huffington Post

"Like", "like", "like" the carnage … Is this some sort of macabre computer game?

The Guardian - Tech

Roses with their thorns stuck out everywhere, and the lilies, whose columnar stalks the girl had bunched at the center, shot up through the top of the bouquet like, like, like — like insane trees towering above some insane world, he thought.

The New Yorker

We're going to do something different right now, like, like, like we always do it this time!," West yelled to the crowd, before dramatically heading into a shallow part of Swan Lake in Yerevan while performing "Good Life".

Independent

Like Like Like Like @ @ @ @!!!!

Vice

Like, Like, Like -- 20 Likes, 30 Likes, 40 Likes, wow, I'm a superstar -- versus I'm just going to pass you a note in class and admire you.

Huffington Post

And Ms. Conti, at least, likes "like with like" a lot.

The New York Times

1. Mike, like, likes Emily, but not like that.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "like likes like" sparingly and only when the repetition enhances the meaning or creates a desired stylistic effect. Overuse can sound awkward or unsophisticated.

Common error

Don't assume "like likes like" is universally applicable. It implies a direct and often reciprocal attraction, which may not always be the case in complex social or emotional dynamics.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like likes like" functions as an observation about affinity. Ludwig AI highlights the phrase's usage in expressing the tendency for similar entities to gravitate towards each other.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "like likes like" serves to denote that similar people or things tend to be attracted to one another. While grammatically sound, Ludwig suggests it's more suited for informal contexts due to its repetitive nature. Though its usage is currently rare, its meaning is readily grasped and alternatives such as "similar attracts similar" or "birds of a feather flock together" can offer a more polished tone when needed. Thus, using the phrase judiciously, with an understanding of its nuances, allows writers to effectively convey a sense of patterned attraction.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the same prefers the same

This is a more literal and direct restatement of the original phrase's meaning.

similar attracts similar

This alternative conveys the core concept of attraction between similar entities using different wording.

birds of a feather flock together

This is a common idiom expressing the idea that similar people tend to associate with each other.

like-minded individuals connect

This phrase focuses on the connection formed between people who share similar thoughts or interests.

people of like mind are drawn together

This phrase focuses on the mental aspect of similarity and its role in bringing people together.

equals gravitate toward equals

This option emphasizes equality as the basis for mutual attraction or association.

kindred spirits find each other

This variation highlights the spiritual or emotional connection between similar individuals.

those with common ground converge

This option suggests that shared interests or experiences lead to a meeting or coming together.

echoing affinities

This alternative uses more figurative language to describe shared tastes or attractions.

repetition of preferences

This focuses on the recurring nature of choosing things that are similar to one's liking.

FAQs

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

You can use "like likes like" to suggest that people with similar interests or qualities tend to be attracted to each other. For example: "In the office, it often seems that "like likes like"; those with similar work ethics tend to collaborate more effectively."

Is "like likes like" grammatically correct?

Yes, "like likes like" is grammatically correct, although its repetitive nature can make it sound informal or stylized. It's most effective when used intentionally for emphasis or to create a specific effect.

What's a more formal alternative to "like likes like"?

More formal alternatives to "like likes like" include "similar attracts similar" or the adage "birds of a feather flock together". These options convey the same idea with greater sophistication.

In what situations should I avoid using "like likes like"?

Avoid using "like likes like" in formal writing or situations where a polished and professional tone is required. Its informal and somewhat playful nature might be inappropriate in academic papers or business communications.