Be like
Learn the difference between using ‘be like’ to ask for descriptions and the very common, informal ‘be like’ used in storytelling.
β° When do we use ‘be like’?
This phrase has two very different uses. One is a standard question form, and the other is a feature of informal, spoken English.
- To Ask for a Description (Formal & Informal Use): This is a common question used to ask about the general character or quality of a person, place, or experience.
- A: What’s your new boss like?
- B: She’s very professional and fair.
- A: What was your vacation like?
- B: It was amazing! So relaxing.
- To Quote or Describe a Reaction (Very Informal Use): In casual, spoken stories, people often use ‘be like’ instead of “said” or to describe a person’s reaction or feeling.
- Quoting: He didn’t want to go. He was like, “I think I’ll stay home tonight.”
- Reacting: When I saw the mess, I was like, wow! π²
π Structure
- For Asking Descriptions: The structure is always a question.
What + be (is, are, was, were) + Subject + like?
- For Informal Quoting: This is used in statements to report speech or reactions.
Subject + be (is, am, are, was, were) + like, "..."
π Notes: Don’t Confuse the Questions!
The most common mistake for learners is confusing What is ... like? with What does ... like?. They ask for completely different information.
What is she like?β Asks for a description of her personality.- Answer: She is friendly and intelligent.
What does she like?β Asks about her hobbies and interests.- Answer: She likes reading and hiking.
Remember: The second use of “be like” (for quoting) is very informal. Use it with friends, but avoid it in essays, emails for work, or formal situations.
Ready to explain similarities and examples effortlessly in English?
Mastering “be like” is a fantastic step to sounding natural and conversational when describing people, things, or actions. It’s a versatile phrase used to introduce a characteristic, a quote, or an example.
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