like to

Idioms  

1. Also, liked to. Come close to, be on the point of. For example, We like to froze to death, or He liked to have never got away. This expression, now considered a colloquialism from the American South, dates from the early 1400s and was used several times by Shakespeare.

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Example Sentences

Robo-taxis and robots might be the future, but EVs generate significant revenue, and investors would like to see a strong number for second-quarter deliveries.

From Barron's • Jul. 1, 2026

"But you can't judge the system on one tough day. I'd like to think there are better times ahead."

From BBC • Jun. 30, 2026

He remembers what it’s like to not speak English as a young player in the minors, when he was taken under the wing of former Angels pitcher Carlos Estévez, whom O’Hoppe described as Soriano’s mentor.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 30, 2026

"There are many things one would like to say or ask for, like life itself. But well, I'd appreciate help with sports equipment," he said, citing a need for balls, vests, cones and football boots.

From Barron's • Jun. 30, 2026

“Well, the next time you see him,” I said, getting to my feet, “you tell him that I’d like to meet him and shake hands with him.”

From "Summer of the Monkeys" by Wilson Rawls