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Language for Expressing Likes, Dislikes and Preferences

08 Feb 2024

likesIt is very easy to simply say ‘I like’ or ‘I don’t like’ something, but it is more difficult to state by what degree you like or dislike it. And, it’s often not just a question of directly stating how you feel about something. In many situations you’ll have to be careful about your tone – how direct or indirect your language is. Stating dislikes and preferences too directly can sometimes cause offence. You’ll need to consider who you’re speaking to and the context of the situation when choosing your words.

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Expressing Likes Dislikes and Preferences

(includes lesson notes, dialogues, podcast lesson + interactive practice exercises)


Below, you’ll find a number of useful expressions for expressing likes, dislikes and preferences.


Expressing Different Degrees of Likes and Dislikes

I love this model. I like this model.

I think this model is pretty good.

This model is OK.

This model isn’t bad.

This isn’t quite what we’re looking for.

This doesn’t work for me.

I’m not keen on this model.

I don’t like this model very much.

I don’t like this model at all.

I can’t stand this model.

I hate this model.


Making Comparisons

This model is not as advanced as that model.

This model is more expensive than that model.

This model is better than that model.

This model doesn’t have as many features as that model.


Stating Preferences

I prefer this model to that one.

I would prefer to use this model.

I like this model better than that one.

I’m not sure I like this model as much as that one.

I have a preference for that model.

I’d rather we use this model.

I’d rather we didn’t use this model.

I’d rather use this model.

I’d sooner use this model.

 

 

 

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