I like or I'd like? One small sound changes the meaning

The rule

I like + noun or -ing is about what you enjoy in general: I like coffee. I like swimming. I'd like (I would like) + noun or to + verb is a polite way to say what you want now: I'd like a coffee, please. I'd like to swim.

The 'd in I'd like is short and easy to miss, so learners drop it and say I like a coffee when they want one. That sounds like a fact about your taste, not a request.

Examples

In a conversation

A: Would you like a tea?

B: No, thanks. I don't really like tea.

A: Oh! What would you like, then?

B: I'd like a coffee, please. I love coffee!

Practice

Choose the best answer. The answers are at the end of the lesson.

1. ___ an orange juice, please.
   • a) I like
   • b) I'd like
   • c) I'm like
2. My brother ___ playing video games.
   • a) likes
   • b) would like
   • c) like
3. I'd like ___ a table for two, please.
   • a) booking
   • b) book
   • c) to book

Tip

Do you like tea? asks about your taste; Would you like a tea? is an offer, so answer Yes, please or No, thank you. I like to swim is also correct, but after I'd like, always use to.

Answers

1. b) I'd like. You want it now: I'd like.
2. a) likes. A general habit, and he takes -s: likes.
3. c) to book. After I'd like, use to + verb.

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