they like like

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they like like" is not standard in written English, but it can be used in informal contexts, particularly in spoken language or casual writing.
It is typically used to emphasize a liking for something, often in a conversational context where the speaker is trying to convey enthusiasm or a strong preference. Example: "I asked her if she liked the movie, and she said she really like like it!"

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

People are going back to the blueprint of doing what the fuck they like, like Tupac did.

The Guardian - Music

Plus, they can brand their service as they like – like as Four Seasons is doing, for example – and keep their customers' data in-house, instead of making it available to a third-party like Facebook.

TechCrunch

If they like like it share that with other people.

Huffington Post

You may laugh as your cat chases a laser pointer around your house trying to catch the blasted red dot, or as they randomly fall asleep anywhere they like, like upside down on top of a loaf of a bread, the point being that though they are pets they have more empathy than we could ever dream.

Huffington Post

Girls will often drop hints about what they like, like musical artists, clothing items, or accessories.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

"As we all know, fashion people like hating things more than they like liking things".

The New York Times

If I told them they didn't need glasses, they would start crying because they saw glasses they wanted, that they liked, like Barbie frames.

The New York Times

"They like to live like pigs in shit," Saperstein said.

The New Yorker

"They like to squeeze things, like tomatoes for tomato concassé.

The New York Times - Food

"People like to gamble, they like to win, they like to compete".

The New York Times - Sports

Get them a gift that they will surely like, like some chocolates or a nice lunch!

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "they like like" sparingly and primarily in informal conversation or writing to emphasize enthusiasm. In formal contexts, opt for "they really like" or other more conventional alternatives.

Common error

Avoid using "they like like" repeatedly in your writing. Overuse can make your writing sound unsophisticated or repetitive. Instead, vary your expressions of liking with alternatives like "they really like" or "they are fond of".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they like like" primarily functions as a means of emphasis in informal contexts. As Ludwig AI clarifies, it's a non-standard construction intended to intensify the expression of liking. This contrasts with more formal ways of conveying strong preference.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

50%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they like like" is an informal expression used to emphasize a strong preference or liking. According to Ludwig AI, it's not grammatically standard but is acceptable in casual contexts. It's best to avoid using it in formal writing, where alternatives such as "they really like" or "they adore" are more appropriate. The phrase appears infrequently in published sources, mainly in news and media and wiki content, suggesting its use is primarily conversational.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they really like

This alternative is a more standard and grammatically accepted way of expressing a strong liking.

they are really into

This alternative suggests a deep interest or enthusiasm, implying a strong liking.

they are quite fond of

This alternative is more formal and indicates a pleasant and affectionate liking.

they adore

This alternative expresses a very strong liking, bordering on love.

they are crazy about

This alternative signifies an intense and enthusiastic liking.

they are keen on

This alternative suggests a strong interest and liking, common in British English.

they have a strong liking for

This alternative is a more formal way to express a significant degree of liking.

they are passionate about

This alternative implies a very strong enthusiasm and liking, often related to hobbies or interests.

they are deeply attached to

This alternative suggests a strong emotional connection and liking.

they prize

This alternative means they value something highly and therefore like it very much.

FAQs

Is "they like like" grammatically correct?

The phrase "they like like" is not considered grammatically standard in formal English. It's more commonly used in informal speech or writing to emphasize a strong liking. In formal contexts, it's best to use alternatives like "they really like".

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

The phrase "they like like" is appropriate in informal settings, such as casual conversations or informal writing, where you want to emphasize a strong preference. Avoid using it in formal writing, academic papers, or professional communications.

What are some alternatives to "they like like"?

You can use alternatives such as "they really like", "they adore", or "they are crazy about" to express a strong liking in a more grammatically standard way.

How can I emphasize liking something without using "they like like"?

You can emphasize liking something by using adverbs like "really", "very much", or "deeply" before the verb "like", or by choosing a stronger verb like "adore", "love", or "cherish". For example, "They really like it" or "They adore it".