like to say

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "like to say" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to express that the speaker wants to express or convey something. It can also be used to introduce a personal opinion or thought on a subject. For example: 1. "I would like to say thank you to everyone who helped make this event a success." 2. "I'd like to say that I disagree with your decision." 3. "She always goes out of her way to help others, it's just like her to say yes when someone needs her." 4. "Before I begin my presentation, I'd like to say a few words about the importance of mental health." 5. "I like to say that I am a lifelong learner and always strive to expand my knowledge."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"I wouldn't like to say".

Independent

I should like to say again.

The New Yorker

I'd like to say it was.

The New York Times

I don't like to say 'copy'copy

Independent

Glenda Bailey would like to say hello".

The New York Times

And I don't like to say no.

The New York Times - Arts

A We don't like to say that.

The New York Times

Anything you'd like to say to him?

The New York Times

"I'd like to say I'm a thinker.

The New York Times - Sports

"I'd like to say I was sorry.

The New York Times

I'd like to say thank you.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "like to say" when you want to introduce a common expression, personal opinion, or preference in a conversation or writing. It indicates a familiar way of phrasing something.

Common error

Avoid overuse in formal writing. While "like to say" is acceptable, relying on it too much can make your writing sound repetitive. Opt for more formal alternatives like "I wish to express" or "I want to state" /s/I+wish+to+express depending on the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "like to say" primarily functions as a discourse marker or introductory phrase. It prefaces a statement, opinion, or expression that the speaker frequently uses or identifies with. Ludwig's examples illustrate its common usage in introducing personal beliefs or familiar expressions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "like to say" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to introduce a personal expression, opinion, or commonly held belief. As highlighted by Ludwig, its versatility makes it appropriate for a wide variety of situations, although less formal contexts may benefit the most. While versatile, overuse in highly formal settings can be avoided by using more precise language such as "would like to add" or "mean to convey". With a high usage frequency and supported by credible sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian, this phrase is a valuable addition to one's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

would like to add

Highlights the act of contributing supplementary information.

want to state

Implies a direct and deliberate communication of information.

wish to express

Introduces a formal tone, emphasizing the speaker's desire to communicate.

my understanding is

Presents information based on the speaker's current comprehension of the topic.

care to mention

Shifts focus to a more polite or cautious introduction of a topic.

as I see it

Emphasizes the speaker's perspective and interpretation of the situation.

I mean to convey

Focuses on the intention behind the message, clarifying the intended meaning.

it's my opinion that

Clearly marks the statement as a personal viewpoint.

I'm inclined to think

Conveys a personal opinion or belief, suggesting a degree of uncertainty.

as I would put it

Highlights the speaker's unique way of expressing a thought.

FAQs

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

You can use "like to say" to introduce a phrase or expression you often use, such as, "We "like to say", 'Early bird gets the worm.'"

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

In formal contexts, you might prefer phrases such as "I would like to state" or "I wish to express" instead of ""like to say"".

When is it appropriate to use "like to say"?

"Like to say" is suitable in informal conversations, personal writing, or when quoting common expressions. However, consider more precise language for formal documents.

What does "like to say" imply about the statement?

Using ""like to say"" suggests the statement is a personal habit, a common phrase within a group, or an expression that the speaker identifies with.