like quite

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "like quite" is not standard in written English and may cause confusion.
It could be used in informal contexts, but it is generally better to avoid it in formal writing. Example: "I like quite a few of the options presented."

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

In fact, we don't like quite a few of them.

The New York Times - Food

He was not an easy guy to like, quite honestly.

The Guardian

Sounds like quite the read, Simon!

The New York Times

(That sounds like quite a story).

The New Yorker

Whitelaw seemed like quite a reliable alternative.

The Guardian

It sounds like quite a healthy addiction.

The Guardian - Music

It sounds like quite an occasion.

The Guardian - Books

It sounds like quite the VIP area.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

So this feels like quite the opposite.

The New York Times

"This just looks like quite a tame party to me.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

His second set was much more Federer-like, quite efficient and clean.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "like quite", consider if a more direct synonym such as "somewhat" or "rather" would improve clarity. "Like quite" can sometimes sound less precise.

Common error

Avoid using "like quite" in formal writing. While grammatically sound, it is more casual. Opt for more formal alternatives such as "rather", "somewhat", or "quite similar to" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

Adverbial modifier. The phrase "like quite" functions as an adverbial modifier, usually describing the degree to which something resembles something else or the extent to which something is enjoyed. Ludwig examples show it in contexts requiring nuanced comparisons.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Science

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "like quite" is an acceptable but uncommon way to express a moderate degree of similarity or enjoyment. It leans towards informal usage and can often be replaced with more precise synonyms such as "somewhat" or "rather", especially in formal contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical validity, but suggests considering alternative phrasing for improved clarity in many situations. The phrase is more prevalent in News & Media, but use it judiciously to maintain writing clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

similar to some extent

More explicitly expresses a partial similarity.

quite similar to

Shifts the focus to similarity while retaining the level of intensity.

rather like

Emphasizes the degree of similarity, indicating something is fairly similar.

somewhat like

Changes the emphasis slightly, suggesting a partial similarity rather than a strong one.

strongly resembles

Emphasizes the strength of the resemblance.

a bit like

Suggests a slight resemblance or similarity.

resembles closely

Highlights the resemblance and implies a high degree of accuracy.

bears a resemblance to

More formal way of expressing similarity.

comparable to

Implies the two things can be compared, generally because they share similar characteristics.

akin to

Suggests similarity of essence or quality.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "like quite" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives such as "rather", "somewhat", or "quite similar to". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is "like quite" grammatically correct?

Yes, "like quite" is grammatically acceptable, but it is not considered standard or formal English. Ludwig AI indicates that it's a valid phrase, though not always the most elegant choice.

What's the difference between "like quite" and "really like"?

"Really like" expresses a stronger degree of enjoyment or preference. "Like quite" suggests a moderate degree of similarity or enjoyment but is less emphatic.

In what situations is it best to use "like quite"?

Using "like quite" is better suited for informal conversations or writing. In professional or academic settings, using more precise language is generally preferred.