How to say “I would like to” like a native speaker
A polite way to state an intention or wish before a verb. It is more formal or deliberate than “I want to”.
All phrases · Workplace
Hear “I would like to” in real speech
Clip 1 · Oprah Winfrey
Oprah Winfrey Harvard Commencement speech | Harvard Commencement 2013 · 4:08
About this video
Oprah Winfrey speaks to Harvard's graduating class of 2013. In the address, she discusses an interview with parents who lost their son in the Sandy Hook shooting and reflects on responding to difficult experiences.
In context
And as those words were coming out of my mouth, I went, whoa, this is pretty good.I would like to be a journalist.
I want to make a difference.
Clip 2 · Josh Kaufman
The first 20 hours -- how to learn anything | Josh Kaufman | TEDxCSU · 15:39
About this video
Josh Kaufman discusses learning a new skill with limited time, starting with how becoming a parent changed his priorities. He explains his approach to making the first twenty hours of practice more focused and efficient.
In context
So I thought, this is cool!I would like to play every pop song ever.
So, that was the first song I decided to learn, and I would like to actually share it with you. Ready?
Clip 3 · Twominute English
Asking Questions in English · 5:04
About this video
Speakers in this Twominute English lesson explain questions beginning with “do”, “does” and “did”. The video combines grammar discussion with everyday dialogues, including a customer asking to close an account.
In context
I’m doing good. How can I help you today?Well, I would like to close my checking account.
Oh.. but if you don’t mind me asking, what happened, Sir? You’ve been such a good client.
When to use “I would like to”
- Making a polite request: “I would like to change my appointment.”
- Stating a goal in a meeting: “I would like to explain one concern.”
Common learner mistake
Follow “would like to” with the base verb: “I would like to book”, not “I would like to booking”.
Possible connected-speech patterns in “I would like to”
“Would” can be weak, and its D may be light before L. The final “to” is usually reduced before the next verb.
Related phrases
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