like to be

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'like to be' is correct and usable in written English.
It is a verb phrase that is typically used to indicate a preference. For example, "I would like to be a professional dancer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Do you like to be at home?

WikiHow

I'd like to be there'".

Independent

"They like to be asked.

The New Yorker

"She'd like to be, though".

The New York Times

We'd like to be back.

The New York Times

"I like to be alone".

The New York Times - Arts

We don't like to be insulted.

The New York Times

Now I like to be alone".

Independent

It doesn't like to be raped".

Independent

I don't like to be alone.

The New York Times - Sports

We like to be at the top.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "like to be", ensure the context clearly indicates preference or desire. For instance, "I like to be alone when I read" emphasizes a preference for solitude during reading.

Common error

Avoid using "like to be" when the active voice is more appropriate. Instead of saying "The project is liked to be completed soon", a more direct phrasing would be "We like to complete the project soon."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like to be" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating a preference or inclination towards a particular state or action. As Ludwig AI indicates, it suggests a habitual preference.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "like to be" is a versatile verb phrase used to express preferences, desires, or inclinations. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable. It is commonly found in News & Media and Wiki contexts and exhibits a neutral register, suitable for both formal and informal communication. Consider alternative phrasings such as "prefer to be" or "want to be" to add nuance or formality to your writing. Be mindful of using the active voice when possible to avoid passive constructions. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively use "like to be" to convey your intended meaning with clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

would like to be

A more polite or formal way of expressing a wish or desire.

want to be

A more direct and simple way of expressing a wish or intention.

prefer to be

This phrase indicates a choice or inclination towards a particular state or condition.

desire to be

This alternative emphasizes a stronger feeling of wanting or wishing.

hope to be

Expresses a feeling of optimism about achieving a particular state.

intend to be

This implies a plan or purpose to achieve a certain state or condition.

aim to be

This suggests a goal or aspiration that one is actively working towards.

aspire to be

Indicates a strong desire to achieve something great or of high value.

long to be

Similar to 'yearn to be', but perhaps less intense, indicating a strong desire.

yearn to be

Expresses a deep longing or craving for a particular state or experience.

FAQs

How can I use "like to be" in a sentence?

You can use "like to be" to express preferences or desires, as in "I "like to be" involved in the decision-making process" or "She "like to be" the center of attention".

What are some alternatives to "like to be"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "prefer to be", "want to be", or "would like to be" as alternatives to "like to be".

Is it correct to say "I like being" instead of "I like to be"?

Yes, both are grammatically correct. "I like being" emphasizes the enjoyment of the state, while "I "like to be"" emphasizes the preference for a certain condition or role.

What is the difference between "I want to be" and "I like to be"?

"I want to be" expresses a desire or aspiration for the future, whereas "I "like to be"" indicates a preference for a current or habitual state. For example, "I want to be a doctor" is an aspiration, while "I "like to be" prepared for anything" is a preference.