The expression "feel like" is a versatile collocation and phrasal verb used to describe perceptions, internal states, or immediate desires. Its meaning is semi-idiomatic because while "feel" relates to sensation, the addition of "like" shifts the focus toward comparison or inclination. Depending on the context, it can mean "to have a desire for something," "to have the appearance or sensation of something," or "to have the impression that something is the case."
In terms of register, "feel like" is generally neutral to informal. It is ubiquitous in spoken English and journalism but is often replaced by more precise verbs (such as "desire," "resemble," or "believe") in strictly formal academic or legal writing.
"Feel like" functions as a transitive structure where "like" acts as a preposition. It follows several grammatical patterns:
Note on Separability: Unlike many phrasal verbs, "feel like" is inseparable. You cannot place an object between the two words (you cannot say "I feel it like").
What sounds unnatural: Using a to-infinitive after the expression (e.g., "I feel like to eat") is a common error. Additionally, using it to describe permanent states rather than transient feelings can sometimes sound awkward in formal contexts.
These examples are sourced from feel like on Ludwig.guru.
"I feel like working." — newyorker.com
"Tuesdays feel like Fridays." — nytimes.com
"I feel like I'm suffocating." — newyorker.com
"It can't feel like medicine." — latimes.com
"I feel like a failure." — nytimes.com
| Phrase | Context |
|---|---|
| be in the mood for | Informal; specifically used for desires or inclinations. |
| resemble | More formal; used for physical or structural similarity. |
| have the impression that | Formal; used when expressing a belief or observation. |
| be inclined to | Neutral to formal; suggests a tendency or slight desire. |
| seem like | Neutral; focuses on outward appearance rather than internal sensation. |
| Expression | Meaning | Grammatical Pattern | Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| feel like | To have an inclination for, a sensation of, or an impression that | Verb + like + Noun / Gerund / Clause | Neutral to Informal |
No, the parts of feel like are inseparable and must stay together to function as a phrasal expression. You cannot place an object or an adverb between feel and like without changing the meaning or making the sentence ungrammatical.
While both expressions describe impressions, feel like is more informal and commonly followed by a noun or gerund. In contrast, feel as if (or feel as though) is slightly more formal and is almost always followed by a full subordinate clause.
You must always use a gerund (the -ing form) rather than a to-infinitive when expressing a desire. Learners often mistakenly follow it with a to-infinitive (e.g., 'I feel like to go') instead of a gerund (e.g., 'I feel like going'), which is the only grammatically correct way to use the phrase for activities.
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