likes of, the

Idioms  

1. Also, the like of one. An equivalent or very similar person or thing; an equal or match. For example, I've never seen the likes of this before, or We'll never see his like again. This expression today is almost always put in a negative context. [Mid-1500s]

2. see likes of.

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

likes of, the

Higher oil prices also mean that “the likes of the ECB can’t lower their guard just yet,” KBC analysts said.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 8, 2026

It falls behind the likes of the Netherlands, down 14%, and France, with a decline of 4.5%.

From MarketWatch ● Jun. 30, 2026

Scottish Labour, who have also tabled a separate motion of no confidence, reasoned that they would have several days to convince the likes of the Greens and Liberal Democrats to come onboard.

From BBC ● Dec. 15, 2025

The Oscar-winning filmmaker’s new memoir, “The Uncool,” is a tender and insightful account of his adventures covering the likes of the Eagles, Led Zeppelin and Joni Mitchell for Rolling Stone in the 1970s.

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 22, 2025

The likes of the people here, they're bound to take you for at least a lord or a duke.'

From "The Remains of the Day" by Kazuo Ishiguro