For a review of the basic use of like – and its common mistakes.
Now we examine its declensions.
First, as a noun. There six forms, a “liking”, a “likeness”, “like”, “likes”, “dislikes” and “likelihood”. Let´s review them by example:
- There is a strong likelihood (probabilidad) of a third general election in Spain in 2016.
- I have taken a liking to (afición a) expensive champagne.
- Alejandro´s likes and dislikes (lo que le gusta y no le gusta) are a long story.
- Mr. Podemos does not mix with the likes of us (no se codea con gente como nosotros).
- Judges and lawyers and the like (y otra gente por el estilo) attended the reception.
- You can see the likeness (semejanza) between ZP and Mr. Bean.
Second, as adjectives, negative and positive:
- Mr. Bean is a likeable fellow (un tipo agradable).
- Mrs May is the most likely candidate (la candidata con más posibilidades) for the PM´s job.
- Rain is likely (probable) tomorrow.
- It is unlikely (menos probable) that Mr. Corbyn will win a general election.
- Mr. Smith and his wife are an unlikely couple (una extraña pareja).
Third, as a verb, “liken” meaning “comparar”, to compare.
- I liken Mr. Gove´s behaviour to treachery.
Now as an adverb, likewise (asimismo o igualmente).
- Likewise, it is true that the lower value of the pound will boost exports.
Finally, there is the compound (compuesto) adjective “like-minded”, meaning “con ideas afines” or “de igual parecer”. Here is an example:
- Mr. Rivera and Mr. Sanchez are like-minded in their rejection of Podemos.
