like, (something)

English speakers use the word "like" for many reasons. One way that we use "like" is to show hesitation. You hesitate when:

  • you are unsure of something
  • you're afraid that your words will make other people upset
  • you can't think of the right word to complete your thought

Here are some examples:

You have to fill out a lot of, like, forms and paperwork.

I know that you're upset, but, like, maybe you should calm down.

This is a habit that English speakers (especially young people) have in spoken English. We don't usually use "like" this way in writing.

This phrase appears in these lessons: