Overview
This lecture teaches how to express likes and dislikes in English using a range of natural-sounding phrases, including for strong feelings, mild preferences, indifference, and dislikes.
Talking About Things You Like
- Use phrases like "I really love...", "I'm a big fan of...", or "What I really like is..." to express strong likes.
- "My favourite thing to do is..." and "...makes me happy" also show strong positive feelings.
- You can use nouns or -ing verbs with these phrases (e.g., "I really love seafood" or "I really love swimming in the sea").
- Variations include "what I really enjoy is...", "my absolute favourite...", and "...makes me feel good".
Expressing Mild Likes and Dislikes
- For mild likes, say "I quite like...", "it’s alright", or "it’s not bad".
- For mild dislikes, use "I’m not keen on...", "I don’t like ... so much", and "...isn’t my thing".
- You can use these with nouns or -ing verbs (e.g., "I quite like going for a walk", "I’m not keen on horror films").
Expressing Indifference or No Strong Opinion
- Neutral phrases include "it’s okay", "I don’t mind...", "I don’t have strong opinions about...", "I can take it or leave it", and "I’m not bothered either way".
- These can be used with nouns or -ing verbs, except "I can take it or leave it", which is a fixed response.
- Intonation changes the meaning of "okay" and "alright" (positive or negative).
Talking About Strong Dislikes
- Express strong dislikes with phrases such as "I can’t stand...", "I absolutely hate...", "...drives me crazy", "I have no time for...", and "I really dislike...".
- Use these phrases with nouns or -ing verbs (e.g., "I can’t stand working with him", "I absolutely hate every song he’s ever made").
- Some expressions like "drives me crazy" and "I have no time for..." typically refer to people and their habits.
Key Terms & Definitions
- -ing verb — a verb ending in -ing, used as a noun (gerund) or adjective (participle).
- Intonation — the rise and fall in pitch when speaking, which can change meaning.
- Fixed phrase — an expression that can't be changed and is used as a whole (e.g., "I can take it or leave it").
Action Items / Next Steps
- Write or say three sentences about your likes using today's phrases.
- Practice sentences about things you mildly like/dislike.
- Create sentences about things you feel indifferent about.
- Write three sentences about things you strongly dislike.
- Share what you like or dislike most about studying English.